Dennis Hobson, manager of heavyweight Dave Allen, feels strongly that Olympic bronze medalist Frazer Clarke should have been disqualified last Saturday night in Manchester.
Allen and Clarke were matched in a crossroads clash at the Manchester Arena as part of the undercard to the rematch between Chris Eubank Jr and Liam Smith.
There was some controversy, with Allen complaining of low blows during the fight.
In the sixth round, Clarke was penalized two points for repeated low blows.
At the end of the sixth, Allen went back to his corner and advised his team that he was unable to continue – reportedly citing a perforated eardrum.
Clarke was awarded a TKO win and moved his record to 8-0, with 6 KOs.
Hobson believes Allen still has a bright future on the domestic scene.
“I think Dave proved that he still has plenty left, when you consider he’s not been properly active – although we have put him on a few shows over the last couple of years. He showed that he can still be a competitor in the heavyweight division, and he showed Frazer up – at this stage – to be limited,” Hobson said.
“It wasn’t a classic but Dave ‘old-manned’ him and he nullified and frustrated Frazer. He kept reminding him with the odd big shot and he was going to start piling it on. But when you’re getting hit low that many times … well, it’s a very sensitive part of your body!
“He [Frazer] was dirty. I’m not saying Dave was totally clean but he wasn’t hitting him low or behind the head. The referee warned Frazer, ‘one more and you’re out’ but he hit low a couple more times after that and should have been disqualified.
“It wasn’t a classic but Dave was starting to do a job. He was comfortable in there but when you’re getting hit low that many times it’s going to take a toll. It’s wrong and I’ll be putting a complaint into the Board. Dave doesn’t like any controversy but as his manager and promoter, I have to do that.
“I want Frazer to do well but obviously Dave’s my man and I’m backing his corner. Dave got the wrong end of the deal on Saturday and wasn’t protected in there. The referee didn’t do his job and, make no mistake, if it had been the other way around, Dave would have been disqualified.
“I do wish Frazer well and I’ve always liked him. He had a few spicy words to say afterwards, which I’m not too bothered about because he has to learn to take criticism, and I’ve maneuvered plenty of fighters onto world titles who haven’t had his pedigree, so I know my successes.
“At the end of the day, Dave wanted to test himself against someone who was supposed to be top class and, let’s be honest, he nullified him. So, he can definitely still dance with some of the other quality operators out there.
“I’ll speak to Dave this week. The reception he got on the night was pretty special. He has plenty of supporters and there are more big nights out there for him.”
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