Rules Set for Gervonta Davis vs. Jake Paul: 10-Round Exhibition to Deliver a Winner

Dante Williams | Ejsports

The long-discussed clash between lightweight champion Gervonta “Tank” Davis and social media star-turned-boxer Jake Paul finally has its official rules. Most Valuable Promotions (MVP), co-founded by Paul and Nakisa Bidarian, confirmed that the exhibition bout—scheduled for 14 November in Miami—will be fought over 10 three-minute rounds with a winner declared. The Florida Athletic Commission (FAC) approved the unusual matchup after MVP abandoned efforts to sanction the fight in Georgia. The key sticking point: a massive weight disparity. Davis, a career lightweight who fights at 135 pounds (61kg), will take on Paul, who has campaigned mostly as a cruiserweight around 200 pounds (90.7kg). To level the playing field, both fighters agreed to a maximum weight limit of 195 pounds (88kg), with each wearing 12oz gloves. Unlike many exhibitions, judges will score the fight ringside to ensure a decisive outcome if it goes the distance.

“This will not be a sparring match,” Bidarian said. “There will be a victor.”

Both fighters are also enrolled in the USADA testing pool, guaranteeing the “highest level” of anti-doping oversight.

A Clash of Styles

Davis, 30, brings a pristine record of 30 wins and one draw. Known for his speed, explosive power, and ability to dismantle bigger opponents, the Baltimore native was expected to face Lamont Roach Jr. in a rematch after their March fight ended in controversy.

Instead, Davis will test himself against the 28-year-old Paul, who enters with a 12-1 professional record. While Paul has earned seven stoppages, his last two outings went the distance.

Paul is eager to prove he can break through Davis’ famed defense.

“There’s a lot of holes in his defense that people haven’t exposed,” Paul said. “I haven’t had a knockout in a while, and I’m itching to give fans another viral finish.”

Davis, meanwhile, brushed off Paul’s size advantage.

“He’s stronger and bigger, but speed kills,” Davis said. “Taller fighters always struggle with shorter ones. He’ll hang in there for a few rounds, but once it heats up, you know what happens.”

A Controversial Spectacle

Paul has faced criticism before, particularly after his 2024 fight with a 58-year-old Mike Tyson. This matchup, though, has generated intrigue for its bizarre pairing of size, skill, and spectacle. Though the result won’t count on their professional records, both fighters insist the stakes feel very real. Whether it ends in a viral knockout or a tactical decision, the Davis-Paul exhibition is shaping up to be one of boxing’s most talked-about events of 2025.