Former opponent Dave Allen says Arslanbek Makhmudov is dangerous but favors Tyson Fury
Dave Allen has shared the ring with Arslanbek Makhmudov and believes Tyson Fury should handle him. The former opponent says the Russian is dangerous but not among the heavyweight elite.
Fury (34-2-1, 24 KOs) headlines a major card at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium that will stream globally on Netflix. The fight marks his first appearance since losing to Oleksandr Usyk for a second time in late 2024, a defeat that briefly pushed Fury into retirement before he reversed course and confirmed his return.
Makhmudov (21-2, 19 KOs) arrives in London with confidence after recent wins over Ricardo Brown and Allen himself. The towering heavyweight carries clear knockout power, though Allen does not place him among the division’s elite.
Allen discussed the fight while speaking to talkSPORT.
“Yeah, I’m not sure really. I boxed Makhmudov. I’ve never won the British title, and I really thought on another night I would have beaten him.”
Allen acknowledged the danger Makhmudov presents but questioned whether that threat translates against the top heavyweights.
“I would describe him as dangerous. I wouldn’t describe him as a world-class heavyweight. He’s dangerous. He’s perfect for Tyson.”
The Bolton heavyweight also pointed to Fury’s time away from the ring. Inactivity can affect rhythm and conditioning even for experienced fighters.
“Tyson Fury from two or three years ago, Makhmudov is the perfect fall guy for a comeback. But he’s just aged and inactivity. But he shouldn’t have any problems. If he has problems with Makhmudov, he’s gone.”
The fight now places Fury back under the spotlight at heavyweight. The performance will reveal whether the former champion still has the sharpness required to compete at the top level.