07/02/2025
July 1, 2025
The lightweight division just got a whole lot more interesting. Undefeated phenom Floyd "Kid Austin" Schofield (19-0, 13 KOs) has officially been elevated to the #1 contender spot in the World Boxing Association (WBA) lightweight rankings, making him the mandatory challenger for Gervonta "Tank" Davis' WBA Super World Lightweight title.
This significant development means that the clock is now ticking for Davis: he must face Schofield or risk being stripped of his coveted belt.
Schofield, a 22-year-old talent from Jersey City, New Jersey, has been steadily climbing the ranks with an impressive display of skill and power. His recent dominant first-round knockout victory over Tevin Farmer on June 28, 2025, served as a resounding statement, solidifying his claim as a top threat in the division. Schofield's professional record boasts 19 wins with 13 knockouts, showcasing his formidable offensive capabilities.
For months, "Kid Austin" has been vocal about his desire to face the biggest names in the sport, and now he has the mandatory position to back up his ambitions. The WBA's ranking system, which considers factors like ring performance, activity, win-loss records, and the difficulty of bouts, has deemed Schofield the most deserving challenger.
Gervonta "Tank" Davis (30-0-1, 28 KOs) is widely regarded as one of boxing's biggest draws and most devastating punchers. He claimed the WBA (Regular) lightweight title in December 2019 and was later elevated to WBA Super Champion. His recent controversial majority draw against Lamont Roach Jr. on March 1, 2025, has added another layer of intrigue to his championship reign.
While Davis has consistently faced tough opposition, his choice of opponents has often been strategic, leading to questions about whether he will embrace a challenge from a hungry, undefeated mandatory like Schofield.
The WBA's mandate leaves "Tank" with a clear choice. He can step into the ring with Schofield and defend his title against a legitimate and dangerous contender, or he can vacate the belt. Given Davis's reputation as a fearless fighter, a highly anticipated clash between these two explosive lightweights seems like the most likely outcome.
A fight between Schofield and Davis would be a thrilling spectacle for boxing fans. Schofield's aggressive style and power would test Davis's defensive prowess and counter-punching ability. As "Kid Austin" continues to mature and demonstrate his elite potential, the boxing world eagerly awaits to see if "Tank" will answer the call and deliver what promises to be one of the most exciting matchups in the lightweight division. The countdown to this potential blockbuster has officially begun.
Source: BBT
