David Haye-Tony Bellew weigh-in: Both fighters are lighter for rematch

Peter Hanson

David Haye-Tony Bellew weigh-in: Both fighters are lighter for rematch image

David Haye weighed in around 10 pounds heavier than rival Tony Bellew ahead of their eagerly awaited heavyweight rematch, but both were lighter than for their first bout.

Bellew, who upset the odds to defeat Haye in March 2017, was three pounds lighter this time around at 210 pounds, 4 ounces.

Former world heavyweight champion Haye tipped the scales at 220 pounds, 2 ounces, leaner than the 224 pounds, 9 ounces from his loss 14 months ago.

There was no repeat of Bellew's shove of Haye at Thursday's news conference, but the duo exchanged words during another tense stare-off.

Speaking after the weigh-in, Bellew, 35, told Sky Sports that Haye cannot cope with what he has to offer.

"The scales were heavy, but no problem. Weight is just a number," he said.

"He really thinks I didn't get in the ring with the real David Haye. Someone please show me who I was facing.

"With those muscles, those beautiful abdominals, that sharp haircut, those big pectorals — I'm sure it was him.

"The only thing that's getting dragged out is me hitting you with body shots. Your 37-year-old body can't do what my body can do."

Haye, 37, has had to overcome Achilles and biceps injuries ahead of the rematch, but he insists he is fighting fit ahead of the O2 Arena showdown.

"I knew my weight would be lighter, I feel healthy," he said. "I just wanted to make sure I'm fast, accurate and ready for battle.

"My body has held up in training way better than before. I can do things I couldn't do for many years.

"He thinks I've made a mistake, I disagree, I told him I'm a very different fighter to who he fought last time."

Peter Hanson