Johnny Fisher Says He Needs To Drop “Nice Guy” Persona Ahead Of Next Fight Against Dave Allen

British heavyweight Johnny Fisher says he needs to “we’re not mates” ahead of his next fight against Dave Allen on Saturday.

Fisher, 26, itted he may have been “too pally” with Allen before his controversial victory in Saudi Arabia in December.

The Romford Bull overcame being knocked down in the fifth round to win on points, with Saturday’s rematch taking place at London’s Copper Box Arena.

Fisher and his opponent Allen, 33, built up a friendship after sparring together previously.

While mutual respect is something many in boxing appreciate, Fisher has itted he might have been too nice.

Speaking to BBC Sport, he said: “I sort of forgot we’re not mates.”

Johnny Fisher Says Next Fight Will See A Different Persona

Ahead of his next fight with Dave Allen this weekend, Fisher has promised to rein in the “nice guy” attitude and show a more ruthless edge.

“You’re there to dispatch the other guy. I probably got brought into being a bit too pally with him,” he added.

“Morally, in my heart, I thought the rematch wasn’t something I had to do, but I felt it was right to do.”

Fisher was a controversial winner in the first bout against Allen, with Allen’s trainer Dave Coldwell saying his fighter was “robbed”.

Johnny Fisher Vs Dave Allen Led To Media Backlash

After his win in December, Fisher says he felt some circles in the media were quick to turn on him.

He compared his treatment to that of Manchester United defender Harry Maguire, who came under intense criticism and often received nasty personal abuse when his form dipped last year.

“People love to build you up and when things don’t go to plan, they’re ready to tear you down. But I’ve known that from the beginning,” he told BBC Sport.

“If you’re going to be affected by that, you’re in the wrong game.

“Look at Harry Maguire, a couple of years ago people were saying he’s awful, he’s terrible. Now he’s like the best defender in the Premier League.”

He argued that the media reaction was not a true indication of public feeling.

Fisher added that people he had met since the fight were far kinder than those writing about him.

He said: “When you hear the noise in the media, you’d think it was all negative. But walking down the street, people kept telling me it was a great fight and praising the resilience I showed.

“Looking at it impartially, look at it honestly, and break it down with my team, I really had a positive outlook on it.

“Even with a knockdown, yes, it’s close, but I still truly believe I won it by one round.”

How To Watch Fisher Vs Allen 2

Saturday’s fight between Fisher and Allen will be broadcast on DAZN to more than 200 countries.

The fight can be found on DAZN TV or streamed through the DAZN website or app.

The main card is expected to begin from 7pm BST, with Fisher Vs Allen at about 10pm.