27.07.04 – Don’t blink is the advice on September 10th when the rising star of British boxing David Haye challenges IBO world cruiserweight champion Carl Thompson in a battle of big punchers at Wembley Arena on September 10th.
Thompson has been involved in some of the most thrilling bouts in Britain in recent years including two classic wars with Chris Eubank and his unforgettable back from the brink KO of Sebastian Rothmann in February where one desperate punch clawed victory from the jaws of defeat and earned the Bolton fighter the IBO crown.
That breathtaking encounter is regarded as the leading contender for fight of the year, but many observers believe that Haye vs. Thompson could even surpass that in terms of excitement due to both men’s reputation as heavy hitters.
The reigning IBO champion, one of the most dangerous punchers in boxing, is a seasoned campaigner on the world title circuit and therefore a risky proposition for talented, former amateur star Haye, who is defying conventional boxing logic and challenging for a world crown in only his 11th pro fight. The bout will be televised on BBC1.
Last time out in May, Haye dismantled former IBF champion Arthur Williams inside three rounds in a BBC-televised bout that brought the Bermondsey-born puncher rave reviews. The Londoner has won all 10 of his professional fights inside the distance with no fighter yet to survive into the fifth round.
The handsome, articulate Haye, a regular fixture in fashion and lifestyle magazines, has already won a large celebrity following adding a further touch of glamour to the evening of world championship boxing.
Big fight promoters Robert Waterman and Dennis Hobson said, “This really is the domestic clash of the year. Both Carl and David can end a fight with a single punch. Carl proved that when he knocked out Rothmann to win the IBO title. This is a fantastic fight and we’re delighted it is going out on BBC1.”
Haye’s manager Adam Booth added, “We’re delighted that the fight is going ahead. David is ready to take on someone of Carl’s calibre and we’re confident he can prove himself as a world champion.’
Ticket Prices: Ringside £100. Outer ringside £75. Tickets £40 and £25.