Dave Allen faces his toughest career test as he headlines in Doncaster against heavy favourite Filip Hrgović.
Doncaster plays host to a major heavyweight showdown this weekend as hometown favourite Dave Allen takes on Olympic bronze medallist Filip Hrgović in a “home hero vs elite contender” clash at the Eco-Power Stadium.
Allen returns to his city as a headline attraction after a career resurgence built on his high-profile rivalry with Johnny Fisher, while Hrgović arrives with a reputation for dismantling British heavyweights and operating at world-title level. It’s a compelling crossroads fight between a cult favourite riding momentum and a proven operator aiming to reassert himself in the division.
Dave Allen vs. Filip Hrgovic Odds
| Fighter | Odds |
|---|---|
| Dave Allen | 6/1 |
| Draw | 33/1 |
| Filip Hrgovic | 1/5 |
Dave Allen vs. Filip Hrgovic: Favourite to Win
On paper, Filip Hrgović enters as the clear favourite. The Croatian heavyweight is the more accomplished boxer at elite level, with a strong amateur pedigree including an Olympic bronze medal and a professional record built on defeating solid contenders such as Joe Joyce and David Adeleye.
His only career defeat came against Daniel Dubois in an IBF eliminator, a setback he has since responded to with convincing wins, re-establishing himself as a dangerous gatekeeper to world-level contention.
By contrast, Dave Allen’s story is built on resilience and popularity. The Doncaster man has produced memorable moments - notably his stoppage win over Johnny Fisher in their rematch - but has historically struggled when stepping up against high-level operators such as Arslanbek Makhmudov, Dillian Whyte, and Luis Ortiz.
Allen’s appeal is his durability, toughness, and ability to make fights awkward, especially in front of a home crowd. However, the stylistic and technical gap on paper leans heavily towards Hrgović.
Dave Allen vs. Filip Hrgovic Prediction
Betting trends suggest there is some belief in a home upset, with Dave Allen attracting 64% of bets via Oddschecker, compared to 33% backing Filip Hrgović. That split reflects public sentiment rather than pure boxing logic, with Allen’s popularity and underdog status driving support.
However, when analysing form and level of opposition, Hrgović’s edge is difficult to ignore. He has consistently operated at a higher standard, has greater amateur pedigree, and has shown the ability to control fights against strong British opposition.
Allen’s most realistic path to victory is turning the bout into a messy, high-pressure fight where he drags Hrgović into uncomfortable exchanges and looks for a momentum-shifting shot. If the fight stays disciplined and technical, it strongly favours the Croatian.
Prediction: Filip Hrgović via late stoppage or wide decision.
Dave Allen vs. Filip Hrgovic Undercard
- Louie O’Doherty vs Ahmed Hatim (British & Commonwealth lightweight title)
- Michael Gomez Jr vs Lee McGregor
- Joe Hayden vs Ryan Frost
- Asadkhuja Muydinkhujaev vs TBA
- Ted Jackson vs Mike Byles
- Bradley Casey vs TBA
- Leighton Birchall vs Leonardo Baez
- Kian Hamilton vs Les Urry
- John Tom Varey vs Stephen Jackson
- Maxi Hughes vs Lewis Sylvester
- Carl Fail vs Dean Sutherland
What time is Dave Allen vs. Filip Hrgovic?
The event takes place on Saturday, May 16 at the Eco-Power Stadium in Doncaster.
- Main card begins: 6:00pm BST
- Main event ring walks expected: around 9:30pm BST
- Broadcast: Live on DAZN DAZN
