Could Dave Allen secure dream opportunity against Moses Itauma after Arslanbek Makhmudov test?

Dave Allen returns for the biggest homecoming of his career next month against Arslanbek Makhmudov - but could the Briton be a shock foe for domestic rival Moses Itauma?

'The White Rhino' makes the short trip from his native Doncaster to the Utilita Arena Sheffield in what promises to be one of the largest headline nights of his career so far.

A journeyman by trade with a 24-7-2 record, Allen has captured hearts with his two-fight series over Johnny Fisher, and has one more contracted bout to come after this one.

But previously linked with remarkable dances against former world champions Joseph Parker and Deontay Wilder, he could yet tangle with a future king of the division instead.

So just how might Allen end up on in the ring with Itauma once his bout with Makhmudov is done and dusted - and is it even a serious chance? DAZN News explains matters.

Rankings game benefits senior Briton

Having taken Fisher all the way last December and then securing victory in their rematch, Allen has found himself unexpectedly high in the WBA rankings, currently sat in eighth.

It helps that he claimed a junior belt, the WBA Inter-Continental title at heavyweight, to improve his standing, but more importantly, it places him just six spots behind Itauma.

The younger man, of course, is ranked in the top five by every governing body - but the leaderboard gap between the pair is fascinatingly close enough to make a fight feasible.

Rising star seeking to build audience

Queensberry Promotions boss Frank Warren has indicated Itauma will fight one more time this year in December, likely in an event that would come too soon for Allen to figure.

Leigh Dawney/Queensberry

But the former plans to take his prized prospect to Manchester, after an undercard fight in Glasgow earlier this year, as he seeks to build his domestic brand and reputation.

A surefire way to help juice narrative and box office is to pit Itauma against a domestic foe - and while there are plenty of options to take, Allen arguably is the strongest pick.

Fairytale finish offers torch-passing narrative

Allen previously plotted a second retirement to follow the first fight with Fisher, only for his performance to give him a third wind and a desire for a few more rounds in the ring.

With his dream of a belt secured, the star may yet decide to get out while the going remains good and finish with a final fight after he takes on the challenge of Makhmudov

In Itauma, he has an opponent whose presence would help ensure a big payday, a bigger crowd, and the chance for a fairytale sign-off that represents a passing of the torch.

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