Likable British heavyweight Dave Allen knows exactly what he’s walking into this weekend – and he isn’t flinching.
The 33-year-old ‘White Rhino’ stood face-to-face with the towering Russian contender Arslanbek Makhmudov in Sheffield City Centre on Tuesday night, marking the first public stare-down of what promises to be a colossal Heavyweight showdown.
The ‘White Rhino’ vs. The Giant
At a massive 6ft 7in, Makhmudov’s physical size and raw power are intimidating, even to a seasoned operator like Allen. Yet the Doncaster powerhouse, who has been laser-focused since returning from his Canada training base, made it clear that his respect for the opponent does not translate to fear. This fight is a classic ‘David vs. Goliath‘ narrative, a challenge that Allen willingly accepted.
Motivation: A Stepping Stone to Deontay Wilder
Allen, a rejuvenated fighter after his emphatic win over Johnny Fisher, has placed his entire career on the line. He views Saturday night as a monumental opportunity to join the elite tier of the division.
“I know he’s big, but I’ve faced challenges before,” Allen said. “This is my time. If I can get past this, doors open – I’m talking Deontay Wilder-level doors.”
The tension between the two heavyweights is more than just physical; it is a clash of ambitions. Allen’s camp has emphasised iron discipline and laser focus throughout Fight Week, acutely aware that any slip against a physically imposing and destructive opponent like Makhmudov could be instantly costly.
High Stakes for the Sheffield Homecoming
The atmosphere is set for a massive night of boxing at Sheffield’s Utilita Arena. Fans are gearing up to back their hometown hero, with over 8,000 tickets snapped up for Saturday’s fight—a loud, hungry crowd ready to see the ultimate underdog challenge a giant.
Allen has made it clear that this isn’t just another fight on the calendar; it is the culmination of his second career run. “This is my shot. I know the size difference is there, but I also know my power, my chin, and my plan. Saturday isn’t just about surviving – it’s about making a statement.”
When the bell rings, it won’t just be Allen against Makhmudov. It’ll be a high-stakes collision of ambition versus size, precision versus raw power, and for Allen, possibly a career-defining springboard to the biggest names at the very top of the Heavyweight division.
Full Fight Week Schedule
Fight Week is now in full swing, and the drama will continue as both men meet again at the official Press Conference and Weigh-In.
Event Venue Timings
Thursday, October 9 | Press Conference. Press Conference starts at 1:30 pm
Friday, October 10 | Weigh-In Victoria Hall, Norfolk St, Sheffield S1 2JB | Fighters on the scales from 6:00 pm
Saturday, October 12 | Fight Night Utilita Arena, Sheffield Broadcast live worldwide on DAZN.
About the Author
Phil Jay is a veteran boxing journalist with over 15 years of experience covering the global fight scene. As Editor-in-Chief of World Boxing News since 2010, Jay has interviewed dozens of world champions and reported ringside on boxing’s biggest nights. [View all articles by Phil Jay] and learn more about his work in combat sports journalism.