Dave Allen, who has experience sparring with both Oleksandr Usyk and Tyson Fury, has shared his prediction for who will come out on top in May’s highly anticipated superfight.
As the Tyson Fury vs. Oleksandr Usyk fight approaches, discussions intensify about who will dominate the 12 rounds in Saudi Arabia.
This historic four-belt unification bout in the heavyweight division promises to be one of the sport’s most significant events, featuring two of boxing’s most renowned figures vying for unparalleled success.
Interestingly, there’s an unexpected figure who might have a reliable insight into the outcome of this closely matched fight. British heavyweight Dave Allen might not seem like the obvious choice for fight predictions, but his unique experience sets him apart.
Allen has had the rare opportunity to spar with both legendary boxers, experiencing firsthand their capabilities and styles. Based on these intense sessions, he has formed an opinion on who he thinks will emerge victorious.
When asked about his experiences, according to Give Me Sport, he said: “When I sparred Usyk, he knocked me unconscious. I never went over, I finished the round, but I can remember him hitting me. Next thing I knew, I was stood outside the ring, packing my bag. I was concussed.”
It could be suggested that expectations were realized when Usyk unified the belts by defeating Anthony Joshua twice shortly after sparring with Allen, an outcome that still seemed to surprise Allen. Typically viewed as just a preparation step, sparring revealed Usyk’s rigorous professionalism and dedication, highlighting why he is a formidable opponent.
Dave Allen now understands the necessity of not underestimating the Ukrainian, a lesson that might also serve as a caution for Fury to remain vigilant.
Tyson Fury faces significant pressure leading up to this match. His less-than-stellar victory against Francis Ngannou has not instilled much confidence regarding his upcoming fight or a potential all-British clash with Joshua.
However, Allen holds more confidence in Fury than in Usyk, which might come as a surprise given that Usyk was the one who delivered Allen a knockout.
According to Give Me Sport, Allen justified his thoughts by saying: “I think Fury will beat Usyk, I think he’s too big. I think they are the two best heavyweights on the planet. The skill level is insane – I’ve sparred them both – but I think Fury is too big.”
