Filip Hrgovic Wins Third Straight Fight Against British Heavyweights After Stopping Dave Allen

Introduction

On May 16, 2026, Croatian heavyweight Filip Hrgovic defeated Dave Allen by technical knockout in the third round at the Eco-Power Stadium in Doncaster, England.

Main Body

This fight was a very important moment for both boxers. Dave Allen, 34, came into the match after a successful period, having won his previous fights against Johnny Fisher and Karim Berredjem. On the other hand, 33-year-old Filip Hrgovic wanted to improve his chances of fighting for a world title after losing to Daniel Dubois in 2024. Hrgovic has recently shown a strong pattern of success against British fighters, including wins over Joe Joyce and David Adeleye. In terms of technique, there was a clear difference in skill and distance control. Hrgovic dominated from the start of the match, using straight punches to stop Allen from getting close. The fight ended at 2:37 of the third round when Allen's trainer, Jamie Moore, threw in the towel because Allen was trapped against the ropes. Experts noted that Allen struggled to land his punches, whereas Hrgovic successfully followed a strategy to end the fight quickly. Following this victory, Hrgovic may face Moses Itauma on August 8 at the O2 Arena. George Warren from Queensberry Boxing confirmed that this match is a strong possibility based on Hrgovic's contract. Meanwhile, Allen expressed that he is not interested in fighting Richard Riakporhe for the British title, as he believes the skill gap between them is too large.

Conclusion

Filip Hrgovic continues his winning streak against British heavyweights, while Dave Allen has now suffered his ninth professional defeat.

Learning

⚡ The 'Comparison Pivot' (A2 ➔ B2)

At the A2 level, you likely use 'but' to show a difference. To reach B2, you need to use Contrast Connectors that steer the conversation like a professional.

Look at these two patterns from the text:

"...having won his previous fights... On the other hand, 33-year-old Filip Hrgovic wanted to improve..." "...Allen struggled to land his punches, whereas Hrgovic successfully followed a strategy..."


🛠️ How to use them:

1. On the other hand Use this when you have two completely different ideas or perspectives. It usually starts a new sentence and is followed by a comma. It's like a scale balancing two different sides.

  • A2 Style: I like boxing, but I don't like running.
  • B2 Style: I love the intensity of boxing. On the other hand, I find running quite boring.

2. Whereas This is a 'glue' word. It connects two opposing facts in one single sentence. It highlights a direct contrast between two people or things.

  • A2 Style: Allen was slow. Hrgovic was fast.
  • B2 Style: Allen struggled to land his punches, whereas Hrgovic was dominant.

🥊 Pro-Tip: The 'Skill Gap' Vocabulary

To sound more like a B2 speaker, stop saying "big difference." Use phrases from the article that describe gaps in quality:

  • "A clear difference in skill" (Use this for talent/ability)
  • "The skill gap is too large" (Use this when one person is much better than another)
  • "A strong pattern of success" (Instead of saying "He wins a lot")

Vocabulary Learning

dominated (v.)
to be in control of or win decisively
Example:The team dominated the game from the first minute.
strategy (n.)
a plan of action designed to achieve a goal
Example:She used a careful strategy to win the debate.
contract (n.)
a written agreement between parties
Example:They signed a contract before starting the project.
possibility (n.)
an event that might happen
Example:There is a possibility of rain tomorrow.
gap (n.)
a space or difference between two things
Example:There was a gap between the two buildings.
victory (n.)
a win or success
Example:The team's victory was celebrated by fans.
streak (n.)
a series of successes or failures in a row
Example:He is on a winning streak of five games.
heavyweights (n.)
very powerful or important people or things
Example:The company is a heavyweight in the tech industry.
trainer (n.)
a person who trains or coaches
Example:The trainer helped the athlete improve his technique.
towel (n.)
a piece of cloth used for drying or wiping
Example:She wrapped a towel around her head after the shower.