Norfolk Sports Legends: Davis, Vick & Iverson Connection
- Keyshawn Davis, the WBO lightweight champion, remembers when Pernell "Sweet Pea" Whitaker visited a local boxing event in Norfolk, Virginia.
- Davis, who had only seen videos of the four-division world champion, idolized him.
- Davis is the first world champion boxer from Norfolk since Whitaker.
Keyshawn Davis, Norfolk’s boxing champion, carries on a legacy inspired by local hero Pernell Whitaker, carrying the torch for Norfolk. davis’s journey, shaped by community support from Michael Vick and Allen Iverson, reflects the athletic fervor of his hometown. Facing challenges in the 757, Davis is the first world champion boxer from Norfolk since Whitaker, inspiring the next generation.News Directory 3 spotlights this rising star, celebrated with a Keyshawn Davis Week. Discover what’s next for the champion?
Keyshawn Davis: Norfolk’s Boxing Champion Carries on a Legacy
Keyshawn Davis, the WBO lightweight champion, remembers when Pernell “Sweet Pea” Whitaker visited a local boxing event in Norfolk, Virginia. Even as a preteen, Davis dreamed of boxing glory alongside his brothers Kelvin and keon (DB3), inspired by Hampton Roads legends. Overcoming challenges like rising crime and poverty in “The 757” demanded exceptional talent, Davis said.
Whitaker’s presence that day made a lasting impact. Davis, who had only seen videos of the four-division world champion, idolized him. Seeing Whitaker watch Kelvin’s fight solidified Keyshawn’s belief in their potential. Whitaker later mentored the Davis brothers, sharing invaluable boxing knowledge.
Davis is the first world champion boxer from Norfolk since Whitaker. He joins a distinguished group of athletes from the area, including Michael Vick, Allen Iverson, and Bruce Smith. These figures actively support Davis, showcasing the community’s deep pride and connection.
Vick recalls being inspired by seeing Whitaker and Smith during his youth. He emphasizes the importance of supporting Davis, ensuring he knows he has the backing of his community. Davis values the advice and encouragement he receives from Iverson and Vick.
top Rank chairman Bob arum noted Davis’s commitment to his community,stating that Keyshawn grew up idolizing Pernell,not only for what he did inside the ring,but for what he meant and still means to [the Norfolk] community. He added that Davis has taken the torch from the late,great ‘Sweet Pea’ and is now a beloved figure in Norfolk and the Seven Cities,using his platform to help the next generation of young men and women.
Norfolk has declared June 2-8 “Keyshawn Davis Week,” celebrating Davis’s achievements and community involvement.Davis aims to emulate Whitaker’s impact both in and out of the ring.
Norfolk’s talent pool extends beyond sports, including musicians like Pharrell and Missy Elliott. Mayor Kenny Alexander attributes this to