Dave Allen stunned Johnny Fisher but was denied a win by a controversial split decision, causing an uproar among fans and fighters.
Allen, who entered the ring as an 8/1 underdog, faced Fisher on the undercard of Oleksandr Usyk's rematch with Tyson Fury in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The fight wasn't expected to go Allen's way, especially considering his recent history. His last big fight ended in a loss to Frazer Clarke, where he retired on his stool. He followed that with two low-key wins, but nothing suggested he'd trouble the rising British heavyweight prospect.
Fisher, known as "The Romford Bull," came into the fight with an impressive 12-0 record, including 11 knockouts. He started strong, landing body shots on Allen in the early rounds.
The fight took a turn in the fifth round. Fisher landed a low blow, and Allen responded with a perfect hook that sent Fisher to the canvas. From that point on, the bout turned into an entertaining slugfest.
Allen landed huge hooks and uppercuts, looking reinvigorated. Fisher kept his technique but looked wobbled several times. The fight went the distance, with both men showing incredible toughness.
When the scorecards were read, Fisher got the nod via split decision. Two judges scored it 95-94 for Fisher, while one had it 96-93 for Allen.
The decision sparked immediate outrage. Former world champion Sergio Mora called it "nonsense." Fans on social media branded it an "absolute disgrace" and a "robbery."
"That's bulls**t,"said Dillian Whyte, a former Allen opponent.
Mick Conlan, who scored the fight for Allen by a few rounds, said:
"This sport is cruel at times."
Trainer Dave Coldwell didn't mince words, calling the split decision "bollocks." Charlie Edwards said Allen was denied a "career-defining moment."
The controversial result denied Allen a victory he's been chasing for years. Given the outcry and the close nature of the fight, a rematch seems warranted and deserved.
