Background
His mother died when he was two, and he was raised by his grandmother.
His mother died when he was two, and he was raised by his grandmother.
Allen"s father was a professional boxer. Allen had his first professional fight in September 1942, at the age of eighteen. He beat Jim Thomas on points over six rounds at Caledonian Road Baths, Islington.
His first defeat was in May 1946, against Alex Murphy by a knockout, in the sixth round at Harringay Arena.
They fought in Monaghan’s home town of Belfast, and the result after fifteen rounds was a draw. Shortly after this fight, Monaghan retired, relinquishing his titles, and in April 1950, Allen fought Honore Pratesi of France for the vacant European and World flyweight titles.
In June 1951, Allen fought Vic Herman for the British flyweight title vacated by Rinty Monaghan. In November 1951, Allen had a re-match with Dado Marino for the World flyweight title.
In March 1952, he fought against Teddy Gardner for the British, Commonwealth and European flyweight titles.
Shortly afterwards Gardner retired leaving the titles vacant. In October 1952, Allen fought for the vacant British flyweight title, against Eric Marsden. In October 1953, he had another shot at a World title when he fought Yoshio Shirai, in Tokyo.
Allen’s last fight was an unsuccessful challenge for the vacant European flyweight title.
Allen had worked as a barrow boy at the beginning of his boxing career, and after retiring, he was able to open his own vegetable business in Islington market.
In August 1950, he defended his World title against Dado Marino of the United States. In October 1950, Allen lost his European title when he defended it in Nottingham against January Sneyers of Belgium. In February 1954, Allen defended his British title against Eric Marsden, who he had beaten previously.