Johnny Fisher returns to Copper Box for Zuffa Boxing debut

Johnny Fisher returns with his reputation on the line

The heavyweight has won 14 of his 15 professional fights, with 12 victories coming by knockout, but his reputation took a hit after his two bouts with Dave Allen. 

Fisher narrowly won their first encounter on a split decision before Allen stopped him in the fifth round of their rematch, handing him the first loss of his professional career.

His response was a stoppage victory over Ivan Balaz, although the performance did not completely quiet the questions surrounding Fisher’s ability to compete at the highest level.

Fisher knows victory is crucial as he targets the next stage of his career

The upcoming fight also represents a new start under Dana White’s Zuffa Boxing, with Fisher making his promotional debut for the company.

His rise has been unusual from the beginning. Fisher had barely any amateur boxing experience before turning professional, having previously played rugby at university. 

Much of his popularity came through videos with his father, “Big John”, in which the pair reviewed takeaways. 

The content helped create the Bosh Army, a fanbase that has turned Fisher into one of British boxing’s biggest draws.

Now 27, he returns to the Copper Box for a 10-round contest knowing another victory is important for his ambitions.

Fisher has made it clear that he refuses to let one defeat dictate his future.

“Yeah, I had a loss, but one loss can't define your career,” he told BBC Sport. “There are many, many people before me who are much better than me who have lost and come back.”