Makhmudov defeats Allen to win WBA InterContinental belt

Arslanbek Makhmudov outpointed hometown fighter Dave Allen over 12 rounds on Saturday night at Sheffield Arena, taking a unanimous decision and the WBA InterContinental heavyweight title. The Russian won on the official scorecards 117-109, 116-110 and 115-111 after a fight in which his size, activity and power repeatedly tested Allen over the full 36 minutes.

From the opening bell Makhmudov used his reach and a steady jab to control distance and pressure Allen, who started cautiously and aimed to pick his moments. Allen landed a left hook in the first round and produced his clearest sustained success in the fifth with sustained body work and uppercuts that rallied the crowd, but he was unable to maintain that momentum. Makhmudov absorbed those periods and responded with heavy overhand rights and a consistent jab that carried him through the middle and late rounds.

Referee Steve Gray penalised Makhmudov twice for excessive holding, first in the seventh and again in the final round, costing him two points on the cards. Even with those deductions, Makhmudov’s output and control of the ring proved decisive. Punch stats compiled after the fight showed Makhmudov landing a higher...