Darren Barker tips ‘White Rhino’ to charge past heavy-hitter Arslanbek Makhmudov

Darren Barker is backing ‘White Rhino’ Dave Allen to charge past Arslanbek Makhmudov in Sheffield on October 11.

Allen, 33, is riding high having stopped fellow Brit Johnny Fisher in the fifth round of their rematch in May.

And after being given a list of five names by Matchroom supremo Eddie Hearn for his next outing, which will be live on DAZN, the popular heavyweight opted for the fighter that “actually scared” him.

“As a fan of Dave’s, I like him saying that,” said former IBF world middleweight title-holder Barker. "I want to hear him saying he picked Makhmudov for that reason, because it will bring out the best of him.

"It’s a tough challenge but one I think he’s chosen wisely.”

• Read next | How Dave Allen finally found direction

With Makhmudov, 36, boasting 19 knockouts in 20 wins, it’s hardly surprising the fear factor comes into play.

But Barker, who trained Allen in 2019 for a third-round KO of Lucas Browne and a defeat to David Price, believes it will spur him on.

“He’s wary of who he’s fighting and that gives you the extra percentage in training, which gives you that edge,” he told DAZN News.

“When I went into a fight knowing I was up against it, it heightened everything. You’re a bit sharper in every department because you’ve got to be fully focused."

Allen, 33, is also known for having a decent dig, as highlighted by 19 stoppages in 24 victories, and Barker is confident the Yorkshireman can leave the Utilita Arena with his hand raised if he weathers an early storm.

“Dave’s got to be wary of Makhmudov’s power. He’s massive and punches extremely hard,” he added. "He needs to take the sting out of his shots and you do that by being smart and making him work.

“He’ll want to hold the centre of the ring and be as dominant as he can on the front foot, trying to force Makhmudov back and make him feel under pressure. Get him to load up.

“Head movement is crucial, as is sharp foot movement. Slipping and sliding, rolling under the shots coming your way, with a nice high guard and taking that step back or left and right.

• Read next | Is there a bigger fight than Anthony Joshua vs Jake Paul?

“The plan would be to get through those early stages then start to turn the screw and begin pushing back the bigger man.

“If he can survive the early rounds, I can see Dave stopping him. Don’t forget, Dave’s very, very durable and has a terrific chin.

“He showed me a lot in the gym. He’s got quick feet, quick hands, he’s an intelligent boxer and works hard.

“With the confidence from that win over Fisher, I’m hoping the newfound belief will start bringing that gym fighter out of him on fight night.”

Watch Itauma vs Whyte live on DAZN

Moses Itauma vs Dillian Whyte is live and exclusive on DAZN PPV this Saturday, August 16. Buy the PPV for a one-off fee or get it for free by purchasing a DAZN annual subscription (exc. US).

For more information, pricing and to buy click here.