Dave Allen faced the biggest test of his career in Sheffield against Russian powerhouse Arslanbek Makhmudov, losing by unanimous decision on the scorecards. But in a valiant effort, the man from Doncaster left nothing behind.

Makhmudov’s greatness and power were evident from the first bell. “The Lion” supported Allen and dictated his pace with a mighty jab, tracking him around the ring. Allen landed cleanly at times, but Makhmudov took it and moved forward.

After a low blow in the second round, the Russian regained control and Allen staggered as the home crowd roared on. The fight soon became a test of endurance, and Allen tried to return the fire with heart and fortitude.

The wild dream is over

The fifth round was Allen’s best ever – a furious attack to the body and uppercuts to the guard got the crowd going, but it came at a cost. Makhmudov regrouped, used his range and continued to apply pressure.

In the delayed rounds, Allen looked for the knockout he needed. He set the pace and didn’t give up, even when Makhmudov caught his second wind and boxed smartly to the finish line. The two-point loss to the guests gave hope, but the Russian’s advantage in the cards was too great to overturn it.

Brave Allen kept his distance but couldn’t find a breakthrough. Makhmudov’s strength and composure told the whole story as he strengthened his quest for a world title eliminator.

Unofficial WBN scorecard: 115-111 Makhmudova. Official scores: 117-109, 116-110, 115-111 – all for Arslanbek Makhmudov.

Fight for Allen against Deontay Wilder turned out to be just a pipe dream for “Doncaster De La Hoya”.

Sheffield Fight Night Undercard Results

English super welterweight title
Billal Fawaz is deaf. Juniid Boston – W-MD (96-94, 96-95, 95-95)

Bilal Fawaz emotionally won the English super welterweight title, asking: “I won? I’m the English champion?” before you break down in disbelief.

Josh Padley def. Reece Belotti – UD (99-92, 97-93, 97-93)

Padley boxed with class and control to win the WBA international super featherweight title, the most essential victory of his career.

Hamza Uddin def. Paul Roberts – TKO, round 5

Uddin dropped Roberts three times to win the BBBofC English flyweight title, moving to 6-0 and labeling himself a sedate prospect.

Eliminations:

Ibrahim Sulaman is deaf. James Chereji – UD 80-72
Conner Tudsbury def. Khalid Graidia – TKO, round 4
Joe Hayden def. Angelo Dragone – UD 60-53
Joe Howarth def. Karl Sampson – UD 60-54

About the author

Phil Jay is experienced boxing journalist with over 15 years of experience covering the global combat scene. How Since 2010, editor-in-chief of World Boxing News (WBN).Jay has interviewed dozens of world champions and the most essential boxing evenings in the ring were reported.

[View all articles by Phil Jay] and learn more about his work in combat sports journalism.