Bellew vs Haye 2: Full preview of Sky Sports Box Office rematch
Written by News on 05/05/2018
Everything you need to know as Tony Bellew and David Haye’s rematch looms, live on Sky Sports Box Office on Saturday.
Background
The grudge has existed for nearly two years. Bellew launched a passionate tirade at his ringside rival Haye moments after defending his world cruiserweight title against BJ Flores in October 2016, and a fight that once seemed unlikely moved several steps closer.
There was a press conference brawl as the first fight was scheduled, and the vitriol was palpable. Haye, the former world heavyweight champion, was a heavy favourite to beat Bellew, who was making his divisional debut. Bellew insisted that Haye’s three-and-a-half-year hiatus coupled with a below-par comeback would finally cost him.
Snap! Haye’s Achilles fell apart in March 2017 and Bellew took advantage, recording an 11th-round stoppage and a significant upset. The injury was a bone of contention and paved the way for a second fight.
The Inbetweeners attempted to lighten the mood but Bellew and Haye got physical at Thursday’s press conference. Haye has vowed to box more calmly and resurrect his career; Bellew promises to send his rival into a full-time retirement.
What the fighters say
What the experts say
What the heavyweights say
Essential reading
The weigh-in
The time draws closer
(c) Sky News 2018: Bellew vs Haye 2: Full preview of Sky Sports Box Office rematch
