Boxing

Dave Allen reveals Eddie Hearn pledge after brutal stoppage triumph

DAZN

22, Feb

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Dave Allen admitted his ruthless one-round stoppage over Karim Berredjem was a premeditated pursuit, adding that he hopes to push past his British title dreams.

'The White Rhino' bounced back from last year's decision loss to Arslanbek Makhmudov with a brutal victory over the Frenchman, dispatching him inside a minute.

Allen, long linked to a shot at the Lonsdale Belt, could well challenge for the domestic crown after his success on the Leigh Wood-Josh Warrington 2 undercard.

But speaking in the wake of victory, the star stressed he could go further, while adding his efficient win came after a promise to Matchroom boss Eddie Hearn.

"I knew I was a level or two above this, but [it was] a comeback fight and I took it," he said in the ring afterwards. "I said to Eddie I was going to let my shots go.

"I can hit anybody in the division, but I have a problem letting my punches go. Tonight, I thought, while I had the chance, I'd knock someone out as quick as I can.

"I believe I can go even further [than the British title]. I've got commitment issues. How far I go is up to me, and it always has been. That was a good start.

"I'm a bit of a boy. You think I'd grow out of it. I'm entertaining and I want to be entertainment value. This atmosphere was amazing and I've very proud of it."

Allen stands by Hearn after topsy-turvy week

DAZN News correspondent Andrew Steel

It's been a strange week for Eddie Hearn and Matchroom Boxing, plundered by Zuffa Boxing for their prize asset Conor Benn in a stunning promotional defection.

But on Saturday night at Motorpoint Arena Nottingham, plenty of the supremo's fighters were quick to back him with their gratitude, a show of muscular support.

Few seem as keenly indebted as Dave Allen, whose remarkable revival as a cult hero has been bolstered by a burgeoning relationship with Hearn since late 2024.

'The White Rhino'

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