Bilal Fawaz, a new British boxing champion, recently won the British and Commonwealth super-welterweight titles in a match against Ishmael Davis. However, his victory is overshadowed by his ongoing battle to obtain a British passport, which has become his most challenging fight. Fawaz, who was trafficked to London at the age of 14 and lost to the care system, has lived in the UK for over 20 years, yet still faces significant legal hurdles regarding his immigration status.

Fawaz's complex situation involves a history of being recognized as a victim of trafficking and modern slavery in 2019. Since then, while he has managed to obtain a work permit, the fight for citizenship has continued, marking a stark contrast between his success in the boxing ring and the bureaucratic struggles he faces in his personal life. He has previously been detained twice by immigration services, further complicating his aspirations of being a recognized British citizen.

This story highlights not only Fawaz's achievements as an athlete but also raises broader issues about the challenges faced by immigrants and survivors of trafficking in the UK. It poses critical questions regarding the immigration system's treatment of individuals who have established their lives in the country and emphasizes the difference between legal status and national identity, especially for those who contribute positively to society through their talents and hard work.