Evander Holyfield Says Gervonta Davis Is ‘More Dangerous Than Mike Tyson’
Las Vegas — October 3, 2025
Boxing legend Evander Holyfield, best known for his iconic rivalry with Mike Tyson, has stunned fans by naming a new fighter he believes is even more dangerous than the former heavyweight knockout king.
In a recent interview with FightHype, Holyfield singled out Gervonta ‘Tank’ Davis, the current WBA lightweight champion, as the most fearsome finisher in the sport today — perhaps even more so than the man once dubbed “The Baddest Man on the Planet.”
“Davis is a very good fighter. He’s a very skilled fighter, he kind of reminds me of Pernell Whitaker,” Holyfield said. “Pernell was a skillful boxer. ‘Tank’ is a skillful boxer and a hard puncher – he’s got both of ’em! That would make him even more dangerous than Mike Tyson.”
From Tyson’s Era to Davis’ Dominance
Holyfield and Tyson’s rivalry defined heavyweight boxing in the 1990s. Their first bout in November 1996 ended with Holyfield pulling off a stunning 11th-round stoppage in Las Vegas to capture the WBA heavyweight title. The rematch seven months later became infamous for Tyson’s disqualification after biting Holyfield’s ear in the third round — a moment that shocked the sporting world.
Tyson, with his unmatched speed and ferocity, built a fearsome reputation by knocking out 44 of his 58 opponents and often ending fights within the first few rounds. His intimidating presence in the ring made him a global icon — and for many, the benchmark of boxing’s most dangerous punchers.
But Holyfield believes the new generation has its own standout.
The Rise of ‘Tank’ Davis
Gervonta Davis, just 30 years old, has quickly carved out a reputation as one of boxing’s most devastating finishers. With 30 wins, 1 draw, and 28 knockouts, the Baltimore-born southpaw has dominated the lightweight division with a blend of explosive power and slick defensive movement — drawing comparisons to greats like Floyd Mayweather Jr. and Pernell Whitaker.
Holyfield’s praise highlights what many insiders have come to believe: that Davis is more than just a knockout artist. His ring IQ, footwork, and ability to control the pace of fights make him a rare hybrid of technique and raw power.
Controversy Surrounds Next Move
Despite his dominance, Davis’ next bout has raised eyebrows. Instead of a title defense or a rematch against Lamont Roach — who held Davis to a surprising draw in their last encounter — Davis is set to step into the ring with YouTuber-turned-boxer Jake Paul in an exhibition fight scheduled for Friday, November 14, in Miami.
The match-up, though lucrative and likely to attract massive media attention, has been widely criticized by boxing purists who believe it stalls Davis’ competitive momentum and disrespects the integrity of the sport.
Still, Davis’ star continues to rise, with massive pay-per-view numbers, global recognition, and now the endorsement of a boxing legend.
The Verdict From a Ring Icon
Holyfield’s remarks come as a bold statement in an era often wary of comparing generations. Yet, coming from a man who stood toe-to-toe with Tyson at his most fearsome, the praise carries considerable weight.
“Mike was dangerous, no doubt. But Tank? He’s got the full package. Power, skill, and speed. That’s what makes him next-level dangerous,” Holyfield added.
Whether or not Davis lives up to that legacy remains to be seen — but one thing is clear: when a legend like Holyfield places you above Mike Tyson, the boxing world takes notice.
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