Boxing: Enzo set for ‘brutal’ clash with Haye

Jan 8 2008 South Wales Echo

ENZO Maccarinelli has predicted his showdown with David Haye will be the “12 most brutal rounds seen in British boxing” – if it lasts that long.

An early night is expected at the O2 Arena on March 8 when the rivals, both 27, meet in a cruiserweight unification clash that will determine who rules the division.

It is a mouth-watering contest between two of the sport’s most explosive punchers and Welshman Maccarinelli, who holds the WBO belt, promises it will exceed expectations.

“We’re two boys who fight the same way – we like to take the other guys out,” he said today.

“Everyone says it will be an early finish but if it isn’t then it will be the 12 most brutal rounds seen in British boxing, and that’s a fact. If I was a fan, this would be the fight I would want to see.

“You’ve got two fighters with the same style who will want to rip the other’s head off.

“I’m going to train as hard as I’ve ever done and David will do the same. We’re going to clash in the centre of that ring.”

Haye confirmed his status as the world’s number one cruiserweight when he climbed off the canvas to dispatch respected Frenchman Jean Marc Mormeck in the seventh round.

November’s win in Paris, Haye’s 20th in a 21-fight career that includes 19 knockouts, secured him the WBC and WBA titles that will also be on the line at the O2 Arena.

Maccarinelli has completed 21 of his 28 victories inside the distance and Haye admits he is facing a formidable opponent.

“We are two aggressive guys – look at our knockout percentages, they’re ridiculous,” he said.

“As soon as the bell went against Mormeck, it was a brawl and that’s what I expect against Enzo.”

The fight, which is expected to be a 20,000 sell-out, will be screened by Setanta and Showtime and will start between 1-1.30am to accommodate American viewers.