Fight results

When discussing how Serhii Bohachuk’s opponent was chosen to replace Israil Madrimov, who fell ill, Eddie Hearn mentioned that he provided Turki Al-Sheikh with several intriguing options, and Turki made the selection. It was a good choice.

Stylistically, this should be an interesting matchup. Ishmael Davis is a versatile boxer, flexible, and adept at body defense, but he can also launch aggressive attacks. However, considering Bohachuk's highly offensive and multi-punch style, it seems the American will have to work mostly as a counterpuncher.

Both fighters are 29 years old. However, Serhii has more experience in high-stakes matchups. In contrast, Davis's biggest fight to date was against Josh Kelly in his previous bout.

Bohachuk, on the other hand, has faced career-defining moments, including a loss in 2021 that prompted him to change his coach, training approach, and overall strategy. He also gained significant experience in big fights, such as his bouts against Brian Mendoza (a victory) and Vergil Ortiz (a close loss).

Trying to out-punch Serhii in terms of volume is a poor strategy. His average output is approximately 1,000 punches per fight. He applies relentless pressure, constantly attacking and wearing down his opponents with an unyielding offensive pace.

Davis, in contrast, throws significantly fewer punches. His game plan revolves around using his flexibility and body movement to expose his opponent's weaknesses and land precise, counter-attacking shots. This makes him particularly dangerous in the ring.

This will be the third fight in 2024 for both boxers, with each having one win and one loss earlier this year.

Davis faced Troy Williams in a 12-round bout, securing a victory. He then fought Josh Kelly in a close and competitive contest. Despite Kelly leaving the ring with a cut, he was declared the winner by majority decision.

For Bohachuk, this year included two major bouts. First, he defeated Brian Mendoza by decision. Later, he knocked Vergil Ortiz down twice but ultimately lost via majority decision.

This is a tough category to call. Davis has a significantly lower knockout percentage but visibly delivers strong punches. His strikes aren’t fearsome or guaranteed knockouts, but he hits with impressive strength and technique.

Bohachuk doesn’t rely on one-punch knockout power either. However, when he lands cleanly, it spells trouble for his opponents. Vergil Ortiz hit the canvas twice from Bohachuk’s punches. Serhii excels at hiding his power behind a flurry of punches, making it extremely difficult to avoid.

Davis has never lost via stoppage, while Bohachuk was knocked out in 2021. However, this is now an even contest in terms of resilience.

Serhii absorbed all of Vergil Ortiz's heavy and precise punches without breaking. He also withstood the shots of Brian Mendoza, who can knock out almost any opponent at any moment.

Whether Ishmael can endure Bohachuk's power remains unknown—he has never faced such a test.

Both boxers will debut in Riyadh, offering no home advantage for either fighter. A Brit and a Ukrainian will face off on neutral ground, ensuring fair judging, equal fan support, and pure boxing conditions.

Davis is presented with a massive opportunity. He will try to defeat an opponent who has recently established himself among the division's elite. While this provides motivation, it also poses a challenge, as Davis received the fight offer on short notice.

For Bohachuk, facing late replacement opponents is nothing new. This will be the second time this year, out of three fights, that he has prepared for one opponent but faced another. The first time, he handled it brilliantly, dismantling Mendoza.

This time, the Ukrainian fighter is just as motivated. He states that he has done the work and is determined to defeat anyone standing in his way.