BoxRec

AUDLEY HARRISON has vacated his European crown — clearing the way for a world title shot later this year.
Harrison, 38, is currently recovering from surgery on a torn pectoral muscle following his last-gasp KO of Michael Sprott in April.

The Londoner had hinted he would have one more fight before targeting fellow Brit David Haye or the Klitschko brothers.

But A-Force is in a hurry to box for one of the major world titles — and it appears he may get his wish when he returns from injury in October.

Harrison said: "I'm told by my promoters that both Haye and the Klitschkos have expressed an interest in facing me when I return after rehab.

"If it's either of the Klitschkos, Vitali or Wladimir, the task will be hard — but that's how I want it.

"I respect both brothers as they are effective at what they do. However, both can be beat.

"As I said before, Haye is a false prophet, one punch on that chin and it will shatter like glass.

"If I was him, I'd keep running from the Klitschkos and keep beating up on shop-worn American heavyweights.

"Whatever the route, I will find a way to fulfil my destiny and become heavyweight champion of the world."

Harrison defied the critics by fighting with one hand for most of his bout with Sprott for the vacant Euro title at London's Alexandra Palace.

His heart for pro boxing had been questioned regularly since joining the paid ranks following glory at the 2000 Sydney Olympics.

But promoter Eddie Hearn believes the American-based fighter still has what it takes to achieve his dream.

Hearn said: "Everyone wants to fight Audley because they know what he brings to the table.

"We are in discussions with the Klitschkos and Adam Booth and David Haye regarding a world title shot later this year.

"We are keeping our options open right now but the Haye fight is huge.

"Audley's last two appearances in the UK have attracted record viewing figures, so couple that with Haye's popularity and this is the biggest fight the UK has ever seen."

MacTavish wrote:Yes, but Harrison is an OLYMPIC GOLD HEAVYWEIGHT CHAMPION and that will make this fight huge.

Agree he's done not much really to earn the shot but I'll take a big event like this as they are few and far between sadly in British boxing.

jamesmcdonnell wrote: I've little interest in this fight.

Khaosai-Galaxy wrote:

jamesmcdonnell wrote: I've little interest in this fight.

More interest in complaining that boxing


Typical boxrec, to be honest

tonyevs wrote:You can quote me. And hold me to every word..

Audley will be the one making the fight and Haye will be the guy using the more negative tactics.

I'm not saying Audley will win ... But Haye will do his usual style of circling & circling ....and circling plenty more, before throwing his single shots.

Captain Hook wrote:I can't believe people still fall for Aud's bullshit....

Trailing to Sprott then landed a bingo punch.......won Prizefighter against a bunch of no-marks and faded fighters......

And now he's ready for Haye and the Klits? Give me a break.

jamesmcdonnell wrote:

tonyevs wrote:You can quote me. And hold me to every word..

Audley will be the one making the fight and Haye will be the guy using the more negative tactics.

I'm not saying Audley will win ... But Haye will do his usual style of circling & circling ....and circling plenty more, before throwing his single shots.

Hahah! When has Audley ever 'made' the fight against anyone? Do me a favour. Haye has been the aggressor in every fight bar one that I can recall, and that was against Valuev, who has a rock solid chin.

Audley will just paw with the jab and shuffle around like he usually does. The minute he leaves an opening, Haye will start dropping some bombs, and Audley will retreat into his shell again.