Keyshawn Davis Eyes A Big 2026

Following his 12th-round stoppage of Jamaine Ortiz on his debut at 140, Keyshawn Davis is targeting a move up to 147.

Davis has made it clear that he intends to be one of the most active boxers this year, with a plan to fight three times. After the Ortiz win, Davis called for a showdown with WBO welterweight champion Devin Haney, labeling it a “mega-fight” for late 2026. Haney has also stated he is willing to fight him and Shakur Stevenson.

Davis has also floated the names of British fighters Lewis Crocker (IBF Welterweight Champion) and Dalton Smith (WBC Junior Welterweight Champion). While there were links with Andy Cruz, that is unlikely now since Cruz boxes 135. Keyshawn has plans for a big 2026.

“Me and Eddie Hearn was having a conversation also about Lewis Crocker. You know what I’m saying? I would love to go to the UK and fight him in the UK, main event, of course. And I would love to fight Lewis Crocker as well. You know what I’m saying? So, it’s not just for Devin Haney. But he is on my hit list. Dalton Smith is there, too. He cool. He just dapped me up, told me congratulations. He a good dude. You know what I’m saying? But he got that strap that I want. You know what I’m saying? And I’ll fight Dalton Smith in the UK, too,” Davis said 

The Benefits

By headlining a show in London or Manchester, Davis can tap into a “hardcore” fan base that supports its fighters. Building this international profile makes him a more attractive B-side or co-headliner for a massive 2026 clash with Devin Haney, as it proves he can draw a global audience and sell tickets outside of his home market of Norfolk, Virginia.

As the current IBF Welterweight Champion, Crocker represents the most direct route for Davis to become a two-division world champion. Winning a title on foreign soil is a move that boosts a fighter’s legacy and standing in the pound-for-pound rankings. Holding the WBC Junior Welterweight title, Smith is widely considered the best 140-pounder in Britain. A victory over Smith in his backyard would essentially “clear out” the domestic UK scene for Davis.