Sam Gilley vs Ishmael Davis: Preview & Betting Tips

The Eubank vs Benn 2 undercard features a quietly fascinating matchup between two of Britain’s most durable and technically sound fighters in Sam Gilley and Ishmael Davis for the British and Commonwealth super-welterweight titles.

Gilley (18-1-1, 9 KO’s), the London-based technician has built his reputation on fundamentals; a crisp jab, steady pressure, and solid defensive instincts. His approach is measured and methodical, preferring to win rounds through clean, accurate punching rather than overwhelming his opponents with aggression.

Davis (14-3, 6 KO’s), by contrast, is the more fluid and dynamic boxer. The Leeds native combines fast hands with a good sense of distance and a knack for timing his counters. He has faced the higher level of opposition between the two, gaining valuable experience in bouts where he’s been forced to adapt under pressure.

Tale of the Tape

Sam Gilley – Odds 3.50

Record: 18-1-1, 9 KO’s

Age: 31

Height: 6ft

Reach: 72”

Weight: Super-welterweight

Stance: Orthodox

Ishmael Davis – Odds 1.30

Record: 14-3, 6 KO’s

Age: 30

Height: 5ft9

Reach: 72”

Weight: Super-welterweight 

Stance: Orthodox 

Sam Gilley vs Ishmael Davis: Analysis

Davis’ lone stoppage defeat came against Serhii Bohachuk, one of the division’s most fearsome punchers, a loss that says more about Bohachuk’s world-class power than any flaws in Davis’s chin. Against non-elite punchers, Davis has shown exceptional toughness and ring intelligence.

That durability is crucial here because Sam Gilley simply doesn’t possess fight-ending power. While he’s a well-schooled boxer with respectable pop, his record and fighting style suggest he’s more likely to win on accumulation and control rather than through knockout shots. Against Davis, who is slicker and more experienced, that approach could struggle to yield consistent success over twelve rounds.

Stylistically, this fight is almost certain to go the distance. Both men are durable, defensively sound, and disciplined in their pacing. Gilley will look to establish his jab early, maintain range, and keep Davis from setting traps. Davis, meanwhile, will rely on his lateral movement, timing, and superior shot selection to dictate the rhythm. 

Gilley vs Davis: Prediction & Betting Tips

I expect a tactical battle fought largely in the centre of the ring, with plenty of feints, body work, and mid-range exchanges where accuracy and ring IQ matter more than brute strength.

The later rounds will likely favour Davis. His higher-level experience, particularly against stronger opposition, should allow him to manage the tempo more effectively and pick up crucial points in the championship rounds.

Take Ishmael Davis to win via decision or technical decision at odds of 2.88 . The Yorkshireman is more experienced at the higher level, and his athleticism and durability should get him over the line.