Can Frank Martin Dodge Turmoil Surrounding Spence and James?
Presently, the boxing world is buzzing now that fan-friendly KO-specialist and WBA lightweight champion Gervonta “Tank” Davis (Abdul Wahid) (29-0, 27 KO’s) is stepping back in the squared-circle. On June 15, Tank will test his might against challenger Frank “The Ghost” Martin (18-0, 12 KO’s). Martin is trained by former fighter Derrick James and promoted by current fighter Errol “The Truth” Spence Jr.
Heading into this contest, some believe that Martin is in over his head while others believe he’ll provide the stiffest test that Tank has ever seen. These wildly divergent perspectives have only served to fuel the fire for fans to see the match unfold live.
A FAMILY DIVIDED
One major story line, and potential distraction, revolving around this duel is his chief second and promoter, James and Spence Jr., respectively. Prior to being hired to train Martin, Derrick James was the longtime coach for Errol Spence Jr. In fact, James was Spence’s amateur trainer and led Spence into the professional ranks and guided him until he became a unified champion. Not only was he a unified champion, The Truth was only one belt shy of becoming the undisputed welterweight champion.
Following his only professional loss however, to two-division undisputed champion Terrene Crawford, Spence Jr. and Derrick James suffered a bitter split. As neither James nor Spence Jr. do a great deal of public talking, the details of this break are few and far in-between. Yet, the splintering of their union appears to be financially based as James is formally suing Spence to collect monies he feels that he is owed.
CAN’T WE ALL JUST GET ALONG?!
This unfortunate drama could spill into Martin’s lap due to James being his current trainer and Spence Jr. functioning as his very vocal promoter. Without question, both men will be very close to The Ghost throughout fight week and certainly on fight night. Ideally, all parties will be on their best behavior, but it will be remarkably difficult to believe that zero tension or ill-feelings will not play a part in the backroom preparations of the fight.
In the end, only time will tell, but this regrettable melodrama will certainly be a huge part of the fight night story. So, let’s see if Martin can block out the ill-will or if this fractured professional family adversely affects his performance!
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