By Iftisaam Khan: With the recent confirmation of the much-anticipated fight between Tony Bellew (31-28-2) and David Haye (20-28-2), there will certainly be a number of skeptics doubting the chances of the man they call the ‘Bomber’. Moving up to heavyweight will see Bellew in uncharted territory for the first time as he meets the ‘Hayemaker’ on the 4th march at the O2 Arena in London, England.
Going into the fight Bellew will be full of confidence coming off the back of an impressive performance against BJ Flores, in which he floored the American four times- including a devastating left hook to the body to close proceedings. The war of words officially began.
Also, coming off a victory, is David Haye who is looking to rebuild his career following a 4-year absence from the ring after being forced to retire with a shoulder injury. The Londoner has been at the forefront of criticism recently regarding the level of opponents he has faced since coming back, but this certainly won’t be lasting anytime longer as he makes a big step up of opposition against a determined Tony Bellew live on Sky Box Office.
Many feel the Liverpudlian has slim chances of causing a massive upset, with the bookies massively leaning towards an easy night’s work for the ‘Hayemaker’ who will be fighting in front of a home crowd in the capital. With Bellew moving into heavyweight, the advantages will be with the former WBA heavyweight champion who will have an edge in experience over his foe; having mixed in the ring with the likes of Wladmir Klitschko he certainly knows what’s required at this level.
The ‘Hollywood star’ Bellew has produced a number of ruthless performances leading up to this bout none more other than his explosive victory against IIunga Makabu. Coming off the canvas to KO Makabu in the third round at his boyhood club Everton, saw him crowned World Cruiserweight champion and he showed just why he’s regarded as the best in the division.
Although fight fans around the world will be overwhelmed with the sudden announcement yesterday, bitter rival Shannon ‘Cannon’ Briggs will certainly not be. Having been initially promised by the 36-year-old of a fight between the pair, Briggs will be feeling hard done by after doing all that was asked of him in overcoming his last opponent- but Haye seems to have other plans.
As expected, the build up to the fight will be rather enthralling with both egos going head to head in a clash which can see Haye get a shot at Anthony Joshua later down the line. With rumors going around that Haye got a “hiding” off the Liverpudlian early on his career as well as the great animosity between the pair; March 4th is a date you just can’t miss.