This Saturday, the Copper Box Arena in London will host a highly anticipated rematch between heavyweight prospects Johnny Fisher and David Allen.
Fans and commentators were split on Fisher's controversial split-decision victory in their first meeting, which set the scenario for a fierce rematch. Fisher got out to a great start in their first fight, establishing dominance with his jab and work rate in the opening exchanges. Before Allen hit him with a stinging right hand and a barrage of uppercuts that dropped Fisher on the ground in the fifth round, the Romford-born heavyweight seemed to be cruising through the fight. It was a turning point that significantly changed the fight's momentum.
Allen’s strength and expertise were evident from rounds five through ten. He hit Fisher with a string of forceful hooks and uppercuts that put him on the defensive and injured him. Many commentators found it difficult to score such stanzas in Fisher's favour, even though he displayed courage and tenacity to survive the subsequent rounds.
Although there were moments of two-way action during the battle, Allen was mostly responsible for the more devastating blows and more significant damage in the second half. Two of the three judges ruled in Fisher's favour despite the knockout and Allen's late dominance, which sparked discussion and controversy among boxing fans.
The outcome was a harsh pill for Allen, a veteran known for his tenacity and resilience. Conversely, Fisher's conditioning, defence, and capacity to handle hardship at the highest levels of the sport were all called into question. The rematch now guarantees fireworks as both fighters are keen to settle the score and prove their point. Fisher wants to silence detractors and show that he has grown since their first meeting, while Allen wants validation and even a victory that will save his career. Given that both men are well aware of the stakes, Saturday's matchup is sure to be an intense and emotional night.
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