The Liverpool boxer was scheduled to fight Josh Kelly for a potential world title shot, but less than two weeks before the bout, he was struck down by illness. This disruption significantly affected his training, leading to his withdrawal from the event at Wembley Stadium.
On Monday, Turki Alalshikh confirmed reports that surfaced earlier. Josh Kelly, 30, will now face a new opponent as he aims to continue his strong performance streak.
“Ishmael Davis, who is unbeaten with a record of 13-0 and 6 KOs, will now take on Josh Kelly as part of the Riyadh Season Wembley Card this Saturday, September 21, in London,” the statement announced.
“The Leeds-born fighter, who recently secured a unanimous decision victory over Troy Williamson in a twelve-round super-welterweight match, will now face Josh Kelly at Wembley Stadium this weekend, following Liam Smith’s withdrawal due to illness.
“This bout is part of a high-profile card at England’s national stadium on Saturday, headlined by Daniel Dubois defending his IBF heavyweight title against two-time former unified champion Anthony Joshua. The event is set to attract a record crowd for a UK boxing event.
“The Riyadh Season Card in London will also feature six all-British matchups and a special performance by legendary Oasis frontman Liam Gallagher.”
Joshua is set to pursue his goal of becoming a three-time world heavyweight champion on the card by claiming his second vacated title. Tyson Fury had previously vacated the first belt, which was then won by Charles Martin. The second title was awarded to Dubois by Usyk as a ‘gift’ for their bout.
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