Arslanbek Makhmudov has confirmed that a blockbuster showdown with Anthony Joshua could be next if he defeats Dave Allen in Sheffield on October 11.
The Russian powerhouse, known as ‘The Lion,’ makes his long-awaited UK debut at Sheffield Arena in what many expect to be a lively test against the popular Doncaster man.
Allen, nicknamed the ‘Doncaster De La Hoya’ by some, has built a cult following for his toughness and entertainment value, making him a perfect gateway opponent for big-name heavyweights.
The Path to the Heavyweight Elite
Makhmudov insists that victory could finally secure his spot in the heavyweight elite.
“I’ve spoken with Anthony Joshua about this,” Makhmudov told World Boxing News exclusively. “He told me: win this fight, and let’s talk. That’s my focus now.”
The Montreal-based KO artist also welcomed the chance to box in Britain, a territory steeped in heavyweight tradition.
“It’s a good feeling for me because it’s a beautiful country with a lot of fight fans,” said Makhmudov. “I hope after my win, I will also gain some of the crowd. But for me, it’s nothing new.
“I fought all over the world in the amateurs, India, Cuba, Venezuela, Croatia, Italy, Germany, Turkey, everywhere. So I’m ready for everything.”
Joshua, who is rebuilding after damaging defeats in recent years, has been linked with a 2026 return following back-to-back wins. The former two-time unified champion is desperate to reclaim a world title and remains one of the biggest draws in the sport.
The Wilder Callout
Deontay Wilder, meanwhile, recently returned with a win over Tyrrell Herndon as he targets one last charge at the heavyweight crown.
For Makhmudov, either name represents the opportunity of a lifetime.
“It was a good win,” Makhmudov said of Wilder’s comeback. “The fight went longer than I thought, but sometimes you need to stay a bit longer to feel good again. We’ll see how he looks next.
“But like I said, he can call me anytime. Deontay Wilder would be a dream fight too, honestly.”
Matchroom boss Eddie Hearn has previously spoken of his interest in matching Allen with Wilder on UK soil, billing it as an unlikely Cinderella story. But a Makhmudov win would flip the script entirely, leaving the door wide open for the KO artist to step into either the Joshua or Wilder conversation.
Joshua chance
With Joshua chasing redemption and Wilder hunting one last legacy-defining night, Makhmudov has made it clear he’s ready to crash the party.
AJ is expected back in early 2026, which would tie in perfectly with any Steel City triumph. First, though, the 20-2 slugger must deal with Allen on British soil, a fight that could change the landscape of the UK heavyweight division.
About the Author
Phil Jay is a veteran boxing journalist with over 15 years of experience covering the global fight scene. As Editor-in-Chief of World Boxing News since 2010, Jay has interviewed dozens of world champions and reported ringside on boxing’s biggest nights. [View all articles by Phil Jay] and learn more about his work in combat sports journalism.