The fight's most controversial moment came in the ninth round when Davis took a knee. He claimed sweat mixed with grease blinded him, but skeptics believe Roach landed a clean shot. Referee Steve Willis started counting but stopped when he noticed the timekeeper wasn't keeping track. This decision has drawn criticism from boxing experts.
Another incident saw Davis use a shoulder barge in a clinch without warning, while Roach got reprimanded immediately when he responded in kind. The New York State Athletic Commission (NYSAC) has upheld the draw decision despite the ongoing controversy.
Former IBF light welterweight champion Paulie Malignaggi shared his thoughts on the Overdogs Podcast with Mike Perry:
"This is the politics we're dealing with. It's frustrating."
Malignaggi criticized the referee's handling of Davis taking a knee and pointed out the inconsistent treatment of both fighters.
Boxing analyst Mac Mally compared the situation to the NFL, likening Davis to star quarterback Patrick Mahomes in terms of preferential treatment from officials. Malignaggi expanded on this comparison:
"Now with Mahomes, you might as well make it two-hand touch."
This draws parallels to the NFL's history of rule changes to protect quarterbacks, particularly after Tom Brady's 2008 knee injury.
Boxing champion Terence Crawford weighed in on social media:
"I never seen someone take a knee and they don't count it as a knockdown. Must've forgot the rules for tonight."
Crawford's comment brings to mind a 2001 fight between Floyd Mayweather Jr. and Carlos Hernandez. In that bout, Mayweather's glove touched the canvas due to a hand injury, and it was ruled a knockdown despite no punch landing.
With talks of a potential rematch between Davis and Roach, all eyes will be on the officiating. Fans and experts alike will watch closely to see if it's a fair fight or if history repeats itself.