From European champion, to unified world cruiserweight champion, to WBA heavyweight champion, the Hayemaker has done it all. We reflect on six of his best fights in no particular order...
John Ruiz - W TKO9
In 54 fights, 11 of them championship contests, John Ruiz had only been stopped once in eight defeats - when caught cold in the first round by the huge punching Kiwi David Tua.
'The Quiet Man' had fought some of the biggest names in the heavyweight division over the previous decade, but although durable was rather slow and limited and thought to be the perfect opponent to make Haye look good on his homecoming.
And he did. The American was down twice in the first round, setting the tone for a long night ahead.
And while the willing Ruiz had his moments Haye's speed was too much for the ageing warrior, who took so many big right hands that his corner called a halt to the action in the ninth round. Not for the first time, Haye had sent a conquered opponent into retirement.
Carl Thompson - L TKO5
Haye had knocked out his first 10 opponents as his pro career lit the touchpaper. After just 20 rounds in the paid ranks he was deemed ready to be tested by a tough cruiserweight like Thompson.
The glory days were firmly behind the Cat, who as WBO champion had twice defeated Chris Eubank. But he had the heart of a tiger - and he could bang.
The Hayemaker, perhaps riding his own hype and eager to make an early statement, laid into the veteran from the opening bell, raining massive shots down one after another.
Somehow Thompson withstood the barrage, and as Haye punched himself out the wily campaigner began to turn the fight in his favour, flooring the rookie with a right hand in the fifth and with Haye shipping punishment the towel came in, the corner saving their charge for bigger days ahead.
So fight fans, do you agree? Let us know which of David Haye fights are YOUR favourites! Just add your comment below... and keep it clean folk!
