Davis says Romero’s punches were the hardest he has taken in the ring
Gervonta Davis says Rolando “Rolly” Romero is the hardest puncher he has faced, pointing to the impact of his shots when they met in 2022.
Davis made the comment during an interview with Fight Hype, reflecting on past opponents while his own future in the ring remains uncertain.
“I ain’t gonna lie: ‘Rolly’ hit hard. People be sleeping on ‘Rolly’ – he don’t got no chin down, so ‘Rolly’ be getting caught. But he can hit.
“He’s the only person [against whom] I ever felt [such power]. When he swung, it felt like bricks.”
The two met in 2022 at lightweight, where Davis stopped Romero in the sixth round. Despite that result, Davis made clear the power coming back at him stood out above anyone else he has faced.
Romero has since rebuilt his position in the sport. He moved up in weight and claimed the WBA “Regular” welterweight title with a unanimous decision win over Ryan Garcia in May 2025, later being upgraded to full champion.
Davis has not fought since his draw with Lamont Roach in March 2025. The result drew criticism after Davis took a knee in the ninth round that was not ruled a knockdown, a moment that affected the scoring of the fight.
His career has also been affected by legal issues. Davis was arrested on charges that include domestic violence, false imprisonment and attempted kidnapping, and he has since been designated WBA lightweight “champion in recess.”
Romero’s threat comes from the way he commits to his punches with full extension, especially when he lets the right hand go. Even in defeat, that kind of power forces opponents to stay alert at all times.
For now, Davis remains inactive, but his assessment of Romero highlights the respect for the power he faced when they shared the ring.
