David Haye vs. Saber Zairi

David Haye 190 lbs beat Saber Zairi 191 lbs by TKO at 0:54 in round 4 of 4

• Date: 2003-01-24
• Location: Ponds Forge Arena, Sheffield, Yorkshire, United Kingdom
• Referee: Mickey Vann

Weights: Haye 190 1/4 lbs., Zairi 191 1/4 lbs.
Time: 0:54
Aired On: BBC Sport

Notes

• In Round 2, Zairi developed a noticeable cut on the bridge of his nose that would continue to bleed for the remainder of the fight.
• At :55 of Round 3, Haye landed a glancing right hand that cause Zairi to do a complete turn in the ring.
• Zairi down at 2:59 of Round 3 from a straight right that nearly put him through the ropes. He was up at the count of two and received a standing eight-count.
• At :54 of Round 4, referee Mickey Vann called an end to the bout, much to the displeasure of Zairi.

Comments

In normal fashion, Haye was able to use his speed to get in against Zairi and lauch powerful combinations both to the body and upstairs. Haye too found early success with his jab. For what it's worth, Zairi took some big shots in each round from Haye that would've sent many fighters down and out. Despite mounting little offense against the then undefeated Haye, Zairi was a game opponent and was very disappointed at the stoppage. It is unlikely, however, than any beyond Zairi could have disapproved of the stoppage as it was evident that he had little chance of turning the fight.