GERVONTA DAVIS overcame a slow start to stop Hector Luis Garcia - who claimed he couldn't "see" after the fight.
The controversial American was uncharacteristically pedestrian in the early goings of Sunday morning's contest, to the surprise of many.
But he really came to life in the fourth stanza, although it was the eighth and final round which proved to be his best.
Davis punished Garcia with crushing blow after crushing blow in the stanza, so much so the Dominican didn't return for the ninth round.
Garcia admitted: "When I got the shots to the head in the final round, I couldn't see anymore."
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Victory over Garcia saw Davis retain his WBA (regular) lightweight title, although he was far from impressed with his showing early doors.
The Baltimore bruiser said: "I was a little surprised but when I caught him, I knew that he was hurt and that he was hurt bad.
"He's a fighter and I know he didn't want to show it but he was hurt.
"I feel as though I have stuff to work on.
"I'm a fighter and I'm not retired so my cup is never full. I'm always willing to learn.
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"I struggled a little bit because I don't fight southpaws that often.
"But it's OK because that's part of the game."
Davis' triumph has paved the way for a mouthwatering showdown with lightweight prospect Ryan Garcia, which is slated for April 15.
And Tank plans on jumping straight back into training camp for the huge domestic dust-up.
Gervonta Davis stops Hector Garcia to finally set up long-awaited fight
He said: "God willing, I'm ready for the fight.
"It's scheduled for April and I'm here. On my end, I'm ready.
"I'll take a week off and I'll be back in the gym for sure."
Ryan was watching to make sure Davis did his part to keep their eagerly-anticipated clash together.
The Flash tweeted: "Goodbye Tank is over for you."
The undefeated social media sensation added: "No more talking let’s get it on APRIL 15th."
