Gervonta Davis defended his World Boxing Association (WBA) lightweight championship with a unanimous decision victory over Isaac Cruz at the Staples Center, in Los Angeles, California, on Sunday.

The American won by scores of 116-112, 115-113 and 115-113 in a tight bout in which he had to overcome a strong opponent determined to take his crown, in addition to having to deal with an injury to his left hand, the most skilled for him. 

Davis had to use all his tools against the Mexican, who came out with an aggressive style and with a high volume of punches to try to surprise the 135-pound champion. The champion tried to keep his distance and counterattack Cruz with hard punches and that paid off during the fight.

In the sixth round, after hitting “Pitbull”, Gervonta injured his right hand and had to fight with that limitation. The job became more complicated because Cruz was making a good fight and putting pressure without any fear. However, Gervonta’s quality prevailed and he was able to get the decision win on close cards. 

The 27-year-old fighter defended his title for the second time and remains undefeated in 26 fights, 24 won by knockout, while Cruz’s record dropped to 22 wins, 2 losses, 1 draw and 15 knockouts.