Allen to headline 12-round bout with Makhmudov in Sheffield

Dave Allen will headline a 12-round heavyweight bout against Arslanbek Makhmudov on October 11 at Sheffield’s Utilita Arena, a fight being billed as the biggest of Allen’s career and streamed live on DAZN. The 33-year-old Doncaster native arrives in markedly different condition than he has for many previous fights, a transformation praised by promoter Eddie Hearn and greeted by a mix of optimism and skepticism from fans.

Allen, who is listed at 24-7-2 with 19 knockouts, has said he views the match as a career-defining opportunity. "This is my world title fight, really," he told broadcasters, adding that a victory would be the biggest of his career and force broader respect for his place in the division. He also acknowledged the risk he faces against Makhmudov, saying he realises he could be stopped early, "I might get sparked out inside three rounds, but I think I can win."

Hearn has been vocal in backing Allen’s camp. In a social media post, he called Allen "virtually unrecognisable" and noted more than 8,000 tickets had been sold. Hearn has suggested that a win could lead to significantly larger opportunities for Allen, including a possible matchup with former WBC champion...