Bilal Fawaz rallies late to defeat Ishmael Davis, wins British and Commonwealth titles

Boxing News

by Olly Campbell

February 21, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

Bilal Fawaz delivered a stunning come-from-behind victory over Ishmael Davis, securing the British and Commonwealth boxing titles in an eagerly anticipated showdown. Despite a strong opening by Davis, Fawaz showcased remarkable resilience to rally late in the fight and win via majority decision. The victory not only cements Fawaz's status as one of Britain's top boxers but also positions him for potential future bouts against elite heavyweights like Joe Joyce or Tyson Fury. Fawaz, known for his tenacity and technical skill, faced a stiff challenge from Davis, who entered the fight with an impressive record. The early rounds saw Davis controlling the pace, landing clean punches and dictating terms in front of a packed crowd at London's O2 Arena. However, Fawaz remained patient, absorbing the initial pressure before unleashing his counter-attacking prowess in the later stages. The turning point came in the latter half of the contest, where Fawaz's precision and stamina proved decisive. His ability to outwork Davis over 12 grueling rounds highlighted his mental and physical fortitude. The judges' split decision reflected the competitive nature of the fight, with Fawaz's relentless pressure in the final rounds earning him the nod. This victory marks a significant milestone for Fawaz, who has been steadily climbing the ranks since turning professional in 2019. His success on the global stage has further elevated his profile, making him a key player in British boxing. The triumph over Davis, a fellow rising star, underscores Fawaz's potential to dominate at the highest level and solidifies his reputation as one of the sport's brightest young talents. For fans of the sport, this bout is a reminder of why boxing remains so compelling—a blend of strategy, skill, and sheer determination. Fawaz's gritty performance against Davis not only showcased his ability to perform under pressure but also

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Originally published on Boxing News on 2/21/2026