Kery Davis drops a bombshell and resigns from HBO Sports
Kery Davis, who has been a key and occasionally controversial figure for 15 years at HBO Sports, said Thursday he is leaving the network to pursue other, unspecified, opportunities.
The senior vice president of HBO Sports, Davis' role was, in large part, to buy the fights that HBO would broadcast. His departure, which he said is voluntary, is the first major change of the Ken Hershman Era.
Hershman began as president of HBO Sports in January 2012, succeeding Ross Greenburg, who had resigned under pressure in 2011.
"I have had 15 fulfilling years at HBO," Davis said. "Right now is the perfect time to transition. I have some meaningful goals left to accomplish in my work life. I look forward to maintaining my friendships at HBO."
There was intense speculation about Davis' job security shortly after Greenburg resigned. Davis was a key member of the Greenburg regime and came under extraordinary criticism from many in the media for a series of lackluster fights the network broadcast.
He was criticized for being too chummy with powerful boxing manager Al Haymon, a charge Davis always denied.
In a statement, Hershman praised Davis' work at HBO.
"For more than 15 years, Kery Davis was a major contributor to the HBO Boxing franchise, focused on delivering the finest in boxing programming to our subscribers.” Hershman said. "We wish him success with all of his new endeavors."
