LONDON - The postponed rematch between former heavyweight world champion David Haye and fellow Briton Tony Bellew has been scheduled for May 5 at the O2 Arena in London, according to promoter Eddie Hearn.
Bellew beat Haye after a thrilling 11-round bout in March and their rematch was scheduled for December 17, but the 37-year-old Haye pulled out after suffering a bicep injury in a freak accident.
"I'm thrilled to confirm that the rematch between myself and Tony Bellew will take place on Saturday 5th May, returning to The O2 Arena," Haye told promoter Hearn's website Matchroom Boxing.
"Tony has boasted that the rematch gives him the opportunity to force me into retirement. Unquestionably, I step into the ring in May with both my career and legacy on the line."
WBC cruiserweight world champion Bellew has also vowed to end the career of compatriot Tyson Fury, who is hopeful of returning to the ring next year.
"I'm pleased to get a new date in the diary and I look forward to giving boxing fans a great night on May 5. My mind is still very much on this fight and I will punish him," Bellew said.
"I now have a very clear plan for 2018 and that is to knock out David Haye and then knock out Tyson 'Stavros Flatley' Fury and end both their careers..."
Former world heavyweight champion Fury is waiting for the conclusion of a UK Anti-Doping hearing and is yet to renew his boxing license.
I’m pleased to confirm Haye Bellew 2 The Rematch will take place on Saturday 5th May. Whether you witness the showcase live, or tune in from home on Sky Box Office, you will not be disappointed. I will give fans the ending to the Haye Bellew saga I have promised 👊🏾 pic.twitter.com/RfwLvdGZf9
— David Haye (@mrdavidhaye) December 5, 2017
It's official! @TonyBellew will fight David Haye for the second time on 5th May, 2018 at @TheO2. 🥊🇬🇧📅 #BellewHaye2
Full story: https://t.co/CNrzsGfvFd pic.twitter.com/CsFTy5JipP
— Betsafe (@Betsafe) December 5, 2017