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Uber Boxing Champion's Passport Fight

BBC Sport •
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English champion Bilal Fawaz balances boxing with Uber driving as he prepares to challenge for the British light-middleweight title Saturday. The 37-year-old works four jobs to survive while chasing glory in the ring. His journey from care system to championship fight showcases extraordinary determination amid personal struggles.

Fawaz remains stateless despite 24 years in the UK, having faced detention centers and deportation threats. Born in Nigeria to Beninese and Lebanese parents, he was trafficked to London at 14 and entered the care system. Despite winning the English title, the Home Office placed him on a 10-year route to settlement, delaying his passport until 2034.

Saturday's fight against Ishmael Davis could strengthen Fawaz's case for citizenship. His boxing career has limitations as he cannot travel abroad for lucrative fights. The champion hopes to make the UK proud while fighting for recognition that has eluded him for decades.