Arnold Allen jokes about fighting his own dad for a UFC title as he gears up for title fight against Jean Silva

Arnold Allen is back in the spotlight as he prepares for a crucial return to the UFC octagon in Las Vegas. The English featherweight has not fought since his points win over Giga Chikadze in July 2024. Now 32, Allen knows time matters. A strong win tonight could push him straight back into the title picture in one of the UFC’s most competitive divisions.

Allen faces rising Brazilian contender Jean Silva, who has built a reputation for his wild energy and aggressive style. Silva is also chasing redemption after a painful knockout loss to Diego Lopes. With Alexander Volkanovski holding the featherweight belt, Allen understands what is at stake. He has even joked that no opponent would be off limits if UFC gold were on the line.

Arnold Allen hungry for gold after long layoff, looks ahead at Jean Silva fight

Arnold Allen recently joked that title fights change everything. While speaking to The Mirror he said that if a belt was involved, he would even fight his own father. The comment was made in fun, but it showed his hunger. Strength clearly runs in the family. Allen’s father, Pacer, competed in strongman events and MMA, while his brother was crowned Europe’s strongest man in his weight class last year.

The Brit has dealt with tough setbacks. He fought through a serious shoulder issue against Movsar Evloev, with the joint partially separating during the bout. After beating Chikadze, Allen decided his body needed rest. Now healthy again, he wants activity. Ideally, he wants three fights this year, including a possible title shot.

Allen also spoke about the busy featherweight scene. He praised fellow Brit Lerone Murphy for taking a short-notice fight against Aaron Pico and scoring a stunning knockout. In his view, risk should bring reward. He feels Murphy earned attention, even if Pico was not yet tested in the UFC rankings.

At the same time, Allen admitted that Evloev has a strong sporting case for a title shot. Still, he understands why the UFC looks at entertainment value, activity, and matchups when making decisions. He believes a fight between Murphy and Evloev would clearly decide the next contender.

Looking ahead, Allen would love another chance at Evloev if the belt ever comes into play. For now, his focus is clear. Beat Jean Silva. Stay active. And force his way back into the title conversation in a stacked featherweight division.





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