Lightweight world champion Gervonta Davis is facing legal challenges as he confronts a newly filed civil lawsuit two weeks before his highly anticipated fight against Jake Paul. The lawsuit, filed by his ex-girlfriend Courtney Rossel in Miami-Dade County, Florida, includes a range of serious allegations against the boxer, including battery, aggravated battery, false imprisonment, kidnapping, and intentional infliction of emotional distress.
Rossel is seeking compensatory and punitive damages of over $50,000, along with a request for a jury trial. The allegations state that the incident in question occurred at Rossel’s workplace on October 27, where Davis purportedly assaulted her and had previously made threats to kill. Rossel claims there have been at least four prior instances of physical abuse, including being choked by Davis, leading to her currently experiencing post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) for which she is seeking therapeutic treatment.
In reaction to the lawsuit, fight promoters Most Valuable Promotions announced they are conducting an internal investigation to review the allegations thoroughly. In a statement, they denounced any form of violence and pledged to handle the situation with diligence and respect. They emphasized the importance of gathering all necessary information before making any decisions concerning the upcoming fight.
This legal issue arises just months after a separate domestic violence case against Davis was dismissed involving another ex-girlfriend. Davis has a history of legal troubles, including prior arrests for domestic violence-related charges and a stint in jail earlier this year for violating the terms of a house arrest sentence related to a hit-and-run incident in Baltimore in 2020.
The unfolding situation poses uncertainty for Davis as he prepares for his exhibition bout against Paul on November 14. His representatives have remained silent on this legal matter, focusing on the upcoming fight. As the boxing community watches closely, the outcome of this lawsuit may impact Davis’ career and future in the sport. The seriousness of the allegations underscores the importance of addressing issues of domestic violence both in and out of the ring, reminding us that athletes are not immune to personal challenges that can affect both their lives and careers.