Dave Allen's spirited performance wasn't enough as he fell to a unanimous-decision defeat to Arslanbek Makhmudov.

Allen was looking to continue the momentum he had built with his devastating knockout victory over Johnny Fisher in May, but Makhmudov produced a dominant display at the Sheffield Arena with the judges scoring the contest 115-111, 116-110 and 117-109 all in favour of the Russian, despite him having two points deducted for holding.

Roared on by the home fans, Allen was bidding to put his name in the picture for potential future fights with the likes of Deontay Wilder and Moses Itauma, but Makhmudov's power was evident early on. He boxed well behind the his jab and his powerful right hand kept Allen honest all night.

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