Dave Allen was 'baffled' by huge surprise ahead of Arslanbek Makhmudov clash

Dave Allen continues to capture the imagination of the boxing world ahead of his homecoming against Arslanbek Makhmudov later this year.

Taking place on October 11, live on DAZN, Allen will face the dangerous heavyweight at Sheffield's Utilita Arena, and it's arguably the toughest test Allen could take after knocking out Johnny Fisher in the fifth round of their rematch in May. 

Unlike Allen, Makhmudov is someone who has an amateur pedigree meaning he should be the favourite stop 'The White Rhino' and silence what will be an electric atmosphere in the Steel City. 

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However, according to oddsmakers, Allen is a favourite to beat Makhmudov and he gave his reaction to the news in an interview with The Stomping Ground. 

"I’m the favourite with the bookies. That massively surprises me," Allen said.

"Johnny Fisher is a really good, young fighter, but Makhmudov boxed in the WSB in the Russian team.

"I’ve lost seven times, this is a magnet to a good jab [Allen points to his nose]. I was baffled, when I was the favourite against him, I thought ‘Wow’. I was shocked.

"I really envisaged myself being a big underdog which I still feel in my mind I am."

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While Allen is surprised by being the early favourite to triumph, Makhmudov's recent outings may have played a part. 

In his last four contests, Makhmudov has suffered two knockout defeats with his professional record now standing at 20-2 (19 KOs). 

With Makhmudov's chin becoming a weakness, it will definitely be an area Allen will look to exploit after showcasing his punching power in his statement rematch win over Fisher.

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