Dave Allen has never been one to hide his emotions, but ahead of his clash with Arslanbek Makhmudov this Saturday in Sheffield, the heavyweight has shown a rare level of vulnerability. The 33-year-old admits he’s “sh****** himself” as he prepares to headline in front of 8,000 fans - the biggest stage of his career so far.
“This fella’s really dangerous and I’ve trained really hard,” Allen said. “This’ll be the first time where if I get beat, it’s like I’m not as good as I maybe hoped I was. I’m nervous for two reasons - one, he’s dangerous, and two, if I lose, I’m not sure if it’s that I’m not as good as I thought I was, but I’m not as good as I hoped I was.”
Allen admits that in his younger years he lacked focus and maturity. “When I fought David Price, I was 27 but had the brain of a 12-year-old,” he said. “I didn’t really care back then. But now, I do. I want everyone to go home happy.” The Doncaster man credits his new trainer, Jamie Moore, his family, and personal loss for helping him find balance in life and discipline in training.
Watch day in the life of Dave Allen: Watch
The British fighter’s openness about his mental health has long resonated with fans. Allen spoke candidly about struggling with depression and the addictive pull of boxing. “I’ve always been good at fighting, but I’m actually soft as shit,” he admitted. “Boxing’s like a drug. You get addicted to it, and it’s hard to leave alone. I hate boxing, but I love it so much.”
Despite the nerves, Allen insists he’s prepared both mentally and physically for the challenge. “Makhmudov should be 10-1 on, but people are betting on me because they like me,” he joked. “I’m dreading Saturday, but we know how to beat him.”
Whatever happens in Sheffield, Allen has already found a sense of peace outside the ring. “I’ve got a normal life now,” he said. “I’ve got kids, a house, and I’m grateful for it. It’s not about the money or titles anymore - I just want people to be happy.”
Image Credit: DAZN