Dave Allen will face a devastating puncher in his next bout.
Allen, coming off a career-best stoppage win over Johnny Fisher in their rematch, will tackle Russia’s Arslanbek Makhmudov on October 11 at the Utilita Arena in Sheffield.
‘The White Rhino’ was controversially beaten on a split decision against Fisher in December, but dismantled the Romford man with a fifth round demolition at the Copper Box Arena in May.
The 33-year-old secured the WBA Intercontinental heavyweight title, which will be on the line against Makhmudov and is currently ranked at nine with the WBA behind Oleksandr Usyk, who holds all four major titles following his fifth round win over Daniel Dubois last month.
Allen was in talks to face British champion, Jeamie TKV, but that bout fell by the wayside after the Londoner was ordered to defend his crown against Frazer Clarke.
“In Arslanbek Makhmudov I think it really is the biggest test available,” Allen said.
“He looks the part. He’s had some very good wins and he has a high world ranking.
“A win over him will put me right up there on the world stage.
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“It might be a shot to nothing.
“And I might go in as the underdog. But I’m up for it.
“It’s one last shot at the big time for me.”
Makhmudov won his first 18 professional bouts inside the distance, but saw his perfect record snapped in four rounds by now-WBC interim titlist, Agit Kabayel in December 2023.
The 36-year-old suffered a further setback, stopped in eight rounds by Guido Vianello last August, although he did bounce back with a first round blowout of Ricardo Brown in June.
“I’m grateful for the opportunity to face a true warrior like David Allen on October 11,” Makhmudov said.
“I know he won’t shy away from going to war with me.
“But enough talk — it’s time to hunt, and soon, it’ll be time to have my hand raised.”
