Dave Allen returns to the big stage this weekend after a handful of four-rounders to test up and coming heavyweight, Frazer Clarke.
Following a brief retirement back in November 2020 at the age of 28, Allen dipped in and out of the sport at a lower-level. The fight with Clarke represents his first step back up to domestic level.
Promoter Eddie Hearn – who has worked with Allen on many fight nights – said via Matchroom that it’s a toss-up as to whether the fight goes the distance or ends quickly, but seemingly can’t see past a win for Olympic Bronze Medalist, Clarke.
“I mean we just don’t know where Dave is at in terms of his punch resistance, his robustness. He’s got a huge heart and he’s a big strong man, but since his decline if you like and the Usyk sparring stuff, it wouldn’t surprise me if the fight was all over in two, three rounds.
But it also wouldn’t surprise me if Dave stuck it out, made it scrappy and maybe lost on points. I think he’ll really struggle to deal with the work rate of Frazer Clarke. I really do like both men, but I’ve always had a soft spot for Dave Allen. I’m glad he’s getting a shot. Hope that both men leave the ring safely at the end.”
Clarke is on a steady rise in the heavyweight ranks that has been stunted by some matchmaking issues. Allen will be his eighth opponent and he’ll be aiming for a sixth stoppage to move towards a British title fight in 2024.
As for ‘The White Rhino’, where his career goes next all depends on how he looks in the ring. He sees the Clarke fight as a springboard to more big nights under the lights – that is if he can avoid the sixth loss of his 28-fight career.
The heavyweight clash props up Liam Smith’s rematch against Chris Eubank Jr on Sky Sports Box Office.