Dave Allen and Johnny Fisher are set to meet again in a highly anticipated heavyweight rematch at the Copper Box Arena. Their first encounter was razor-close, with many believing Allen edged the contest by a single point due to the knockdown.

Johnny Fisher, at just 26 years old and 13 fights in, remains the younger and fresher fighter. In the first fight, Fisher showcased his busy hands, landing numerous powerful shots through the first four rounds.

However, despite the volume, Fisher was unable to hurt Allen, whose famed granite chin was clearly on display.

Dave Allen, now 32, has endured a notoriously challenging career, often stepping into the ring against opponents beyond his skill level. Over time, these punishing encounters, including brutal clashes with top-tier heavyweights, have inevitably taken their toll.

In their first bout, Allen demonstrated his seasoned ring IQ and toughness, notably dropping Fisher and rupturing his eardrum in the fifth round, severely impacting Fisher’s balance and effectiveness throughout the remainder of the fight. Allen’s ability to force the bout into close-quarters worked in his favor, showcasing his resilience and seasoned fighting instincts.

Looking forward to the rematch, Allen’s key to victory lies in replicating this gritty, up-close strategy. If he can again drag Fisher into a rugged, inside fight, his experience and toughness could overwhelm the younger opponent. Allen might grind out a points victory or even potentially secure a stoppage if Fisher succumbs to fatigue or gets caught heavily again under pressure.

However, Fisher enters the rematch aware of his previous mistakes. Fighting in front of his passionately vocal ‘Bosh Army’ at the Copper Box could either inspire Fisher or introduce additional pressure that risks throwing him off his game plan. Yet, the expectation is that Fisher will approach this fight more strategically, maintaining discipline by leveraging his jab and powerful straight right hand at range.

Ultimately, we think that Fisher will have learned crucial lessons from their first bout. If Fisher remains composed, disciplined, and sticks to boxing at mid-to-long range, he should be able to neutralise Allen’s attempts to close the gap. Although a stoppage seems unlikely given Allen’s renowned durability, we’re leaning towards a Fisher points win.

Pick: Johnny Fisher to win by points decision

Odds: 15/8 @ bet365

Suggested BetBoost: 13/5 @ bet365 for Johnny Fisher to win by points decision, most punches thrown, most punches landed