Arslanbek Makhmudov outpoints Dave Allen in Sheffield
Surprise boxing display from the 'Lion' neutralises Allen over 12
Russian beast Arslanbek Makhmudov delivered a surprisingly disciplined boxing display in Sheffield this evening, defeating local hero Dave Allen on points. After 12 rounds, the judges scored it 115-111, 116-110 and 117-109 in favour of the Canadian-based visitor.
Out of all the proposed outcomes, Makhmudov using his jab, patience and gas tank to box home safely was not entirely expected. Abandoning the rough-and-tumble attacks of old that saw him burn out fast and early, Makhmudov reverted to his amateur boxing skills.
Allen was expected to come on strong later, should he weather the early storm. That storm did not arrive, allowing Makhmudov to breathe deeply, get the win and leave Allen back on borrowed career time.
“Brave guy, crazy chin, heart like a lion!” the winner said, congratulating Allen for his efforts. A possible clash between Makhmudov and Anthony Joshua is now being discussed. Rather than dwelling on the mic, Allen really needed a thorough checkover after taking so many shots.
Makhmudov was deducted two points during a fight in which he used the jab, movement, and scything right hands to see his way through. Allen’s fitness and durability are a testament to him, but the shots coming his way were heavy and regular.
“I’m just not good enough. It’s a bitter pill to swallow, I’ve done it eight times [referencing his losses],” lamented Allen, who said he’s not completely finished with boxing.
A premium, buzzing crowd applauded their man, but the arena emptied quickly, leaving Dave alone to rue a missed opportunity. The winner now looks upwards to world-class. A nice guy with a big heart. Bigger than we thought before this main event, anyway.
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Fawaz closes the chapter on Bostan beef match
The rematch narrative was supposedly all set, as many expected Junaid Bostan to right the wrongs of their first fight draw. Bilal Fawaz hadn’t read the script, pulling off a majority decision win to take home the English title in this chief supporting contest.
Not that he even realised at first. The MC’s low-key announcement left Fawaz believing he had lost to cocksure Bostan, who needs to revisit the drawing board after 10 tough rounds.
Fawaz hurt him with a short right hand in the fourth and used his supreme fitness to prevail over the one-time prospect, who showed bottle and athleticism to his credit. It wasn’t enough as veteran Fawaz got the job done.
Josh Padley wins wide over Bellotti
In an intriguing super-featherweight tussle, Matchroom’s recent addition, Josh Padley, who once stepped in to challenge Shakur Stevenson, faced off with British bruiser Reece Bellotti.
It was always likely to be a tough assignment given Bellotti’s experience and punching power. Padley struggled with the body punching prowess of Bellotti and was keen to hold on as the Watford man tonked the ribs repeatedly.
After 10 hard rounds, where Padley roared back late, it seemed like Bellotti may have done enough. He was left shaking his head at what might’ve been as Padley emerged victorious via a strangely wide unanimous decision.
Opening the DAZN televised portion of the show was Walsall’s Hamza Uddin, who picked up the English and WBA International flyweight titles (both vacant) by defeating Paul Roberts.
The late-notice Somerset stand-in tried to fiddle Uddin about but was dropped three times and stopped in the fifth as Roberts started feeling the body shots. Referee Steve Gray waved it off.
Image Credits: The Sun.
About Steve…
Current existence: Online editor at Boxing News Magazine.
Previous lives: Author (8 books), podcaster (500+ eps), scriptwriter for Motivedia channel, newspaper journalist, copywriter & educator.
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Great recap of the night! Couldn’t be happier for Fawaz, in particular!