Boxing: Harrison poised for Haye showdown

Pa
Monday 23 August 2010 12:09 EDT
Comments
Haye is the current heavy-weight world champion
Haye is the current heavy-weight world champion (pa)

Your support helps us to tell the story

From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.

At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.

The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.

Your support makes all the difference.

Audley Harrison looks set to secure an unlikely world heavyweight title challenge against fellow Englishman David Haye in November.

The 2000 Olympic gold medallist emerged as a surprise contender when WBA champion Haye was unable to agree a unification bout with either of the Klitschko brothers.

The former European champion's promoters claim a deal has been agreed for the pair to clash at the MEN Arena in Manchester on November 13 - although contracts have not been signed.

Harrison, who put himself in the frame by winning the European title earlier this year, said to Haye today: "I'm about as bored as every other fight fan about hearing why you won't accept fights. What are we in this game for?

"I say to try and win titles and create a legacy but if it's money you want then outside of the Klitschko fight I'm the only guy that makes you money. I am accepting the terms you have offered me and now we will see what you are made of.

"So let's stop with the bull********, man up and get this fight signed. So bring on the Battle of Britain and I will be the Hayebreaker come November 13."

Harrison's promoter Eddie Hearn added: "The hard work is done and now it's up to Haye and (manager Adam) Booth.

"We are at the end of the line now, everything is in place and now it's up to them.

"This is a £10million fight and the biggest the country has ever seen, but more than that it's personal between them - there will be no love lost in the ring if we get this signed."

When Haye was unable to agree a deal with WBO/IBF champion Wladimir Klitschko or WBC holder Vitali, Harrison and Polish contender Tomasz Adamek were the likeliest alternatives.

While a fight with Harrison would make less global impact, the showdown would create huge interest in Britain despite Harrison's questionable credentials.

Join our commenting forum

Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies

Comments

Thank you for registering

Please refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in