Gervonta “Tank” Davis, one of boxing’s most well-known figures, has been stripped of his World Boxing Association lightweight title after an arrest warrant was issued in connection with an alleged domestic violence incident, officials confirmed Tuesday.
The Miami Gardens Police Department filed an arrest warrant earlier this month in a case involving battery, false imprisonment and attempted kidnapping, according to law enforcement sources. Davis has not been taken into custody, and authorities, including the U.S. Marshals Fugitive Task Force, are actively seeking his location.
‘Champion in Recess’ Designation
The WBA announced it had reclassified Davis from active lightweight champion to “champion in recess,” effectively removing his standing while his legal matters unfold. The decision allows the organization to sanction a fight for a vacant title among top contenders.
WBA president Gilberto Mendoza, speaking in a statement, acknowledged the gravity of the situation. “Given the circumstances surrounding Mr. Davis and his ongoing unavailability to fulfill championship obligations, the association has taken this action,” Mendoza said.
The move also reflects concern about Davis’ inactivity. The boxer has defended the lightweight belt just twice in the past three years. His most recent bout, a controversial draw against contender Lamont Roach in March 2025, ended without a decisive result and sparked discussion about a rematch that has yet to materialize.
Davis, 31, has not publicly addressed the arrest warrant or the loss of his title. His current whereabouts are unknown, and civil attorneys involved in the case say efforts to serve him with legal paperwork have been unsuccessful. “We have been attempting to obtain service of process on Davis,” said attorney Richard Wolfe. “We are certain we will obtain service when Mr. Davis has been arrested.”
Legal and Career Uncertainty
The charges stem from an October 27 incident at a Miami Gardens gentlemen’s club. Police said they reviewed surveillance footage supporting the accuser’s version of events, according to a police statement. “The investigation determined that Mr. Davis used force to restrain [the victim] in an attempt to remove her from the location against her will,” a Miami Gardens official said.
Davis’ legal troubles and career disruption follow other incidents and allegations in recent years. He has faced domestic violence claims before, including a 2025 case that was later dropped.
The WBA’s action leaves the lightweight division in flux. Promoters and athletes are positioning for potential title fights now that the championship is open. With Davis sidelined, contenders like Floyd Schofield Jr. and Lucas Bahdi may see their opportunity to claim boxing’s coveted belt.