What led Dave Allen to Filip Hrgovic? The unique logic behind a daunting test

Over the years, Dave Allen has gone by two monikers. The “White Rhino” feels fitting; the species is sadly endangered, and boxers like Allen are a true rarity. But what of the “Doncaster De La Hoya”?

While it’s not an actual comparison between Allen and American icon Oscar, the intentional irony of the nickname does distill a British humour that has been key to the heavyweight’s emergence as a cult hero. And that status has only been enhanced over the last two years. In 2024, when Allen was matched with his former sparring partner Johnny Fisher – who has his own fiercely-loyal fanbase – the intention was clear.

Promoter Eddie Hearn was trying to give Fisher an appropriate test after the youngster had eviscerated Alen Babic. “Trying” is the operative word here, though. Dave Allen (left) facing off with Filip Hrgovic ahead of their heavyweight bout on DAZN (Queensberry Promotions) Although Fisher got the win, the match-up was seen as having backfired on the boxer and the Matchroom chief.

Fisher was dropped and was arguably fortunate to get the nod on the judges’ scorecards. Yet Hearn pivoted shrewdly last spring, and the promotion of the rematch saw him position himself almost equally alongside both fighters. And when Allen dropped Fisher twice in the rematch, forcing a stoppage this time, Hearn was quick to sign the 34-year-old.