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David Deron HayeProfessional boxer
Date of Birth: 13.10.1980
Country: ![]() |
Content:
- David Haye: Undisputed Heavyweight Champion
- Professional Debut
- Reign as Cruiserweight Champion
- Title Defenses
- Heavyweight Transition
- Championship Victory
- Title Defenses
- Retirement and Return
- Second Retirement and Comeback
- Fight with Tony Bellew
David Haye: Undisputed Heavyweight Champion
Early CareerDavid Haye, born October 13, 1980, in London, England, began his boxing journey as a youth, inspired by renowned heavyweights. He honed his skills through extensive amateur competitions, including the 1999 World Championships in the United States and the 2001 World Championships in Belfast, where he won a silver medal.
Professional Debut
After turning professional in 2002, Haye made an immediate impact by defeating Tony Booth. He maintained an impressive winning streak, overcoming numerous opponents in high-stakes matches. However, in September 2004, he suffered his first major professional loss against Carl Thompson.
Reign as Cruiserweight Champion
Determined to rebuild his reputation, Haye embarked on a series of successful fights in the cruiserweight division. In 2005, he defeated European champion Alexander Gurov in the first round, cementing his dominance.
Title Defenses
In 2007, Haye defended his cruiserweight title three times against formidable opponents. In November, he faced Jean-Marc Mormeck in a grueling bout that tested his resilience and earned him the respect of the boxing world.
Heavyweight Transition
Seeking a new challenge, Haye moved up to the heavyweight division in 2008. He joined forces with Golden Boy Promotions and scored a stunning victory against Monte Barrett by knocking him down five times.
Championship Victory
In 2009, Haye faced reigning WBA heavyweight champion Nikolai Valuev. Despite the size and power disparity, Haye utilized his speed and precision to outbox Valuev and claim the title.
Title Defenses
In his first title defense, Haye swiftly defeated John Ruiz, earning him a rematch against Vladimir Klitschko. However, in 2011, Klitschko defeated Haye by unanimous decision, ending Haye's reign as champion.
Retirement and Return
After his loss to Klitschko, Haye announced his retirement but later reversed his decision after a confrontation with former heavyweight rival Dereck Chisora. In 2012, Haye returned to the ring and decisively defeated Chisora by knockout.
Second Retirement and Comeback
Following a series of injuries and a decision to focus on other endeavors, Haye announced his second retirement in 2014. However, he made a comeback in 2016, earning two first-round knockout victories.
Fight with Tony Bellew
In 2017, Haye faced Tony Bellew for the WBC cruiserweight championship. Despite dominating the early rounds, Haye suffered an Achilles tendon injury in the sixth round. Fighting on with a compromised leg, he was stopped in the eleventh round, marking his final professional appearance.