Dave Allen is a very likeable heavyweight on the British boxing scene.
A popular personality on social media, Allen has achieved notable success in his career. He defeated Lucas Browne at the O2 Arena and recently dominated Johnny Fisher.
However, he has recently lost to Arslanbek Makhmudov, and his momentum has stalled as he has never broken through to the upper levels of the division.
“I know I have a lot of ability, but ability and doing it on the night are two different things. Even though I’ve had a good career, I’ve never quite achieved it yet,” Allen told Sky Sports.
He explained the reason for his popularity: “I’m just a regular guy. Because of that, and because I don’t hide it, I’m not here pretending that I’m Mother Teresa or that I go to the gym six hours a day,” he said, before confirming himself: “Mother Teresa never went to the gym, right? I’m not a liar, I’m not a fake, I’m who I am and people are who they are.”
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Johnny Fisher hit himself with an uppercut during a match against Dave Allen.
But he insists it’s more than just a cheerful personality.
“I’ve sparred with all of them. Usyk, Klitschko, Fury, Joshua, some of the best heavyweights of the last 10, 15 years. I’ve competed against all of them and won rounds,” Allen said.
“They all say that guy is a very good fighter, but I just couldn’t quite put it together that night.”
He is determined to change that when he takes on top heavyweight contender Filip Hrgovic at his hometown of Doncaster’s Keepmoat Stadium.
Dave Allen celebrates by knocking out Johnny Fisher and winning rematch at Copper Box Arena
“I’m not going to Donnie just for the money. That’s not the case. I know it’s a big ask, but at the same time I really want to do it,” Allen said. “The best version of me would cause Filip Hrgovic all kinds of problems.
“He’s always been a good fighter. Big, tough, strong. I don’t think he’s the biggest puncher in the world, but he can punch a little. He cuts. That’s probably his biggest weakness. He cuts easily.
“There aren’t too many obvious weaknesses. He’s a good fighter and an all-around player. He’s tough.”
But Allen declared, “I’m not afraid of him at all.
“He’s going to be suitably shocked.”
Watch Chris Billam-Smith vs Ryan Rozicki live on Sky Sports on June 6th
