Can David Haye reestablish himself among the top heavyweights?
Rumors are rife about David Haye’s return to boxing and what route he will plot back to the top of the heavyweight division.
The ‘Hayemaker’ is expected to link up with Al Haymon and base himself in America. Haye (26-2, 24 KOs) has been out of the ring since his knockout victory against Derek Chisora more than two years ago. Scheduled fights with Manuel Charr and Tyson Fury fell through due to injury and at one stage it looked like Haye would retire. But he is now back in full health and looking to reach the top of the heavyweight division again.
A split from long-time manager and trainer, Adam Booth, appears to be in sight. If Haye does link up with Haymon as expected, there is a possibility that they will target the WBC heavyweight title currently held by Bermane Stiverne. Stiverne’s next defense is expected to be against Deontay Wilder. Haye versus Wilder or Stiverne would certainly draw a huge crowd on both sides of the Atlantic Ocean. Going this route would help get Haye right back in the spotlight and in the mix to get a rematch with Wladimir Klitschko.
An easier route for Haye may be the WBA title route. Ruslan Chagaev currently holds the regular title with Klitschko the super champion. Chagaev is possibly the weakest out of the current crop of champions and after a couple of fights Haye may fancy his chances against the man from Uzbekistan.
It’s been quite some time since Haye boxed on a regular basis and he still looked pretty sharp at Upton Park after a lengthy break from the sport. Haye may not likely jump back in with top level opposition rightaway. Haye has made no secret of the fact that he wants at least one or two tune up fights before he steps in with world level opposition. A defeat at this stage of his career would almost certainly be the end of the road.
One fighter that has already been mentioned is Alexander Povetkin. Victories against the tier of opposition may earn Haye another world title fight. This is the level of fight Haye should be looking for after he has shaken any ring rust. For his first fight back, a Lucas Browne or Tony Thompson type name would be suitable as both men are world ranked and known to British fight fans.
Haye is a popular fighter and while his fight cancellations frustrated some fans, it will be great to have him back in the ring. His speed and power make him exciting to watch and the fact that he is well known around the world well help him land big fights soon. The heavyweight division is a better place with Haye in it and will be exciting to watch the last journey of his career unfold.
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