Born Michael Davis, Jr. on January 23, 1984, in Falls Church, Virginia, Michael has become a well-known figure in both wrestling and celebrity boxing. Before adopting his ring name Damien Paige in 2014, he was best recognized as Black Dragon, a title he carried proudly throughout his professional wrestling career. The switch to Damien Paige was a deeply personal tribute to a close friend who played a pivotal role in his career and tragically passed away in 2012. This name change marked a turning point in Michael’s career, yet his journey in the entertainment world had already spanned many years.
Early Career and Rise in Wrestling
Michael Davis, Jr.’s foray into professional wrestling began at a young age. Captivated by the athleticism, drama, and intensity of the sport, he quickly made a name for himself under the persona Black Dragon. His skill and showmanship earned him several championship titles, solidifying his status as a top competitor in the ring. Fans were drawn to his combination of technical prowess and charisma, which helped him build a strong following over the years.
However, wrestling was just the beginning for Michael. He eventually transitioned into celebrity boxing, a hybrid of entertainment and sports where his talents shone in new ways. Under Damon Feldman’s World Xtreme Entertainment (WXE), Michael continued to grow his reputation, becoming a celebrity boxing champion and displaying his versatility across multiple competitive arenas.
The Intruder vs. Antoine Dodson: A Notable Bout
One of the standout moments in Michael Davis, Jr.’s celebrity boxing career came in October 2014 when he stepped into the ring as Rashad Cooper, also known as “The Intruder.” In a high-profile match, he faced Antoine Dodson, the viral internet sensation, in a fight that garnered attention across various media platforms. While the bout had entertainment value, it also showcased Michael’s adaptability in blending scripted theatrics with genuine competition. This fight became a memorable highlight in his multifaceted career.
A Veteran in the Celebrity Boxing Arena
With over 15 years of experience in entertainment as an actor, wrestler, boxer, and performer, Michael Davis, Jr. has consistently reinvented himself. His return to the celebrity boxing ring on March 26, 2022, at Atlantic City’s Showboat was met with excitement from fans eager to see him in action once again. It was his first fight in years, marking a significant moment in his boxing journey.
In August 2022, Michael faced Frankie Pickard in a thrilling fight that further established their ongoing rivalry. The two would meet again in the ring on October 22, 2023, solidifying a competitive relationship that pushed both fighters to their limits. Another memorable match occurred on October 15, 2022, in Atlantic City, when a brawl broke out between Michael and Frankie during their heavyweight fight, drawing attention from fans and media alike. This incident further demonstrated Michael’s intense fighting style and his ability to deliver unforgettable performances.
Key Fights and Rivalries
Throughout his career, Michael Davis, Jr. has participated in numerous high-profile celebrity boxing matches. Some of his most notable fights include:
- Mike Davis vs. Frankie Pickard: Their multiple encounters in the ring, including bouts on August 27, 2022, and October 22, 2023, have become central to his celebrity boxing career.
- Mike Davis vs. Rashad Brown: On March 11, 2023, Michael fought Rashad “All Business” Brown at the Showboat Hotel in Atlantic City. Though he lost the match, his performance was widely praised for its resilience.
- Mike Davis vs. Peter Gunz: In November 2021, Michael took on reality TV star Peter Gunz in a fight that drew significant attention. Though Peter Gunz won the match, Michael’s presence in the sport remained strong.
- Mike Davis vs. Jim Raffone: Another notable fight took place on December 2, 2023, when Michael battled Jim Raffone, once again showing his ability to remain competitive in the celebrity boxing world.
Making a Statement In and Out of the Ring
Outside of his accomplishments in wrestling and boxing, Michael Davis, Jr. is known for his bold, outspoken nature. At the Celebrity Boxing event on September 28, 2024, held in Chester, Pennsylvania, Michael made headlines when he took the microphone and challenged Donald Trump supporters to step into the ring with him. Holding a Kamala Harris-themed championship belt, his audacious call-out elicited a range of reactions from the crowd, further cementing his reputation as an athlete unafraid to blend sports with political and cultural commentary.
A Decade of Dedication to Celebrity Boxing
Michael Davis, Jr.’s involvement in celebrity boxing extends far beyond his individual fights. His close friendship with Damon Feldman, the founder of Celebrity Boxing, has been instrumental in his career. Through this relationship, Michael has been able to showcase his acting, boxing, and performance skills on a larger stage, helping to elevate the sport’s entertainment factor. Over the past decade, Michael has become a cornerstone of Celebrity Boxing, often referred to as “The Celebrity Boxing Icon” due to his contributions and impact on the sport.
Acting, Entertainment, and Future Ambitions
In addition to his success in the ring, Michael Davis, Jr. has also built a career as an actor, with roles in both television and film. His larger-than-life persona translates well to the screen, where he captivates audiences with the same charisma that has made him a star in wrestling and boxing. His acting career feels like a natural extension of his talents, allowing him to blend storytelling and physical performance in new ways.
As Michael continues to pursue opportunities in acting, while maintaining his presence in celebrity boxing, he remains a versatile and enduring figure in both the entertainment and sports worlds. With a career spanning over 15 years, his ability to evolve and succeed across multiple platforms is a testament to his dedication and talent. His legacy as an entertainer, boxer, and wrestler is firmly established, and he shows no signs of slowing down.
Mike Davis Jr. Becomes the First Ever Celebrity Boxing Hall of Famer
Mike Davis Jr. made history by becoming the first inductee into the newly established Celebrity Boxing Hall of Fame. This achievement marks a significant milestone not only in Davis’ career but also in the evolution of celebrity boxing as a recognized sport.
Celebrity boxing has grown in popularity over the years, attracting participants from all walks of fame, including actors, musicians, influencers, and athletes from various disciplines. The concept of famous personalities stepping into the ring to settle scores or simply challenge themselves has always drawn significant attention, but it was often seen as more of a spectacle than a serious sport. However, with the rise of professional-level training, promotion, and organization within this sphere, celebrity boxing has begun to establish itself as a legitimate sporting event.
Davis’ induction into the Hall of Fame cements this progression. His career in celebrity boxing has been nothing short of remarkable. Not only has he faced off against several notable figures in the ring, but his dedication to the sport has also inspired a new wave of participants who see it as a way to push themselves to new limits while engaging with fans in a unique and high-adrenaline environment.
The announcement of Davis’ Hall of Fame induction was met with widespread acclaim from both fans and his peers. Many have praised his dedication to the sport and his ability to balance the entertainment factor of celebrity boxing with the seriousness of physical competition. Social media lit up with congratulatory messages, tributes, and highlights of his most memorable moments in the ring. Fellow competitors and trainers also took to various platforms to acknowledge Davis’ role in pushing the sport to new heights.
As the first-ever inductee, Davis now holds a unique place in the history of celebrity boxing, and his contributions will likely influence the sport for years to come. The establishment of the Celebrity Boxing Hall of Fame opens the door for other participants to be recognized for their contributions, but Davis will forever be remembered as the trailblazer who led the way.
In the coming years, it will be interesting to see how the Celebrity Boxing Hall of Fame evolves and who else will join Davis in the ranks. For now, Mike Davis Jr.’s place in history is firmly cemented, and his legacy continues to inspire the next generation of celebrity fighters. His induction serves as a reminder that celebrity boxing is more than just a passing trend—it’s a sport that has earned its place in the world of entertainment and physical competition.
For an in-depth look at Michael Davis, Jr.’s career and future plans, check out his interviews with TME News, where he discusses his experiences, challenges, and upcoming fights as “The Celebrity Boxing Icon.”
