The highly anticipated WBO lightweight title bout between Keyshawn Davis and Edwin De Los Santos, scheduled for June 7, 2025, in Norfolk, Virginia, was abruptly canceled due to Davis failing to make weight. This unforeseen development not only disrupted the event but also had significant financial implications for both fighters.
Purse Breakdown: What Was at Stake?
Prior to the cancellation, the financial stakes for the fight were substantial. Keyshawn Davis was set to earn a guaranteed purse of $450,000, with the potential to increase his earnings to approximately $1.2 million based on pay-per-view (PPV) sales, assuming 500,000 buys and a 60% share of the PPV revenue. Edwin De Los Santos was slated to receive a guaranteed $250,000, with a 40% share of the PPV revenue, potentially bringing his total earnings to around $550,000 under the same PPV assumptions .
The Weigh-In Catastrophe
The trouble began at the weigh-in, where Davis tipped the scales at 139.3 pounds, exceeding the lightweight limit by 4.3 pounds. This significant overage led to Davis being stripped of his WBO lightweight title. Despite efforts to salvage the fight through negotiations—including discussions of financial penalties and second-day weigh-in restrictions—De Los Santos’ team ultimately decided to cancel the bout, citing concerns over Davis’ apparent lack of effort to make weight and the potential safety risks involved .
Financial Repercussions
The cancellation had immediate financial consequences. Davis forfeited his guaranteed purse and the opportunity to earn additional income from PPV sales. In contrast, De Los Santos will still receive his full purse, reported to be approximately $400,000, despite the fight’s cancellation . This decision underscores the financial protections in place for fighters who fulfill their contractual obligations, even when unforeseen circumstances arise.
Broader Implications
The incident has broader implications for Davis’ career. Missing weight by such a margin and the subsequent cancellation of a high-profile fight could impact his reputation and future earning potential. It also raises questions about his commitment and professionalism, factors that are critical in the sport of boxing. For De Los Santos, while he receives his purse, the missed opportunity to fight for the title is a significant setback.
Conclusion
The cancellation of the Davis vs. De Los Santos fight serves as a stark reminder of the importance of professionalism and adherence to contractual obligations in boxing. While De Los Santos is financially compensated, the lost opportunity to compete for the title is irreplaceable. For Davis, the incident represents a significant professional and financial setback, emphasizing the critical nature of discipline and preparation in the spo
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