Dave Allen, known as the Doncaster De La Hoya, delivered a spectacular knockout victory to avenge his earlier loss to Johnny Fisher. In a tense rematch at the Copper Box, Allen’s power and experience proved decisive as he captured the WBA Intercontinental heavyweight title with a fifth-round stoppage.
Revenge served in dramatic fashion
Dave Allen got the win he craved, overturning the outcome of his previous fight against rival Johnny Fisher. The rematch was a gritty, hard-fought contest, but it was Allen who delivered the knockout blow in the fifth round. Landing a crushing overhand right, Allen sent Fisher into trouble. As Fisher tried to recover, Allen unleashed a powerful hook right on the bell — prompting Fisher’s corner to throw in the towel and the referee to wave off the fight.
Despite needing oxygen from paramedics ringside, Fisher showed sportsmanship by getting back to his feet after the stoppage and congratulating Allen on his victory. The Doncaster fighter’s patience and tactical adjustments paid off handsomely.
The meaning behind the win
Allen, awarded the WBA Intercontinental heavyweight belt, openly celebrated the victory and revealed how the first fight motivated him to improve. “I knew the first fight did me a world of good,” he said, “I put a bit of weight on, I knew it would pay dividends, took the risk. I’m the fattest, hardest man you’ll ever see.”
The belt represents more than just a title for Allen—it’s a symbol of progress and dreams for his family. “I’m gonna have an en suite, that’s the dream. My kids will have their own bathroom between them,” he added, showing how deeply personal this victory was.
Allen also took a moment to reflect on the fight strategy, noting Fisher’s tendency to exaggerate movement, which worked against him. “I’ve got experience, I know the game inside out. I’m him, but with 30 more fights basically.”
No trilogy in sight for now
When asked about the possibility of a trilogy fight, Allen expressed concern for Fisher’s well-being, revealing a strong bond despite their rivalry. “He’s my friend,” Allen said. “He’s a very good friend of mine. I wouldn’t allow it [a trilogy fight] to happen, because it’s not in his best interests.”
For now, Allen basks in the glory of revenge and a hard-earned title, while the boxing world waits to see what comes next for both fighters.
