David Haye confirms Jimi Manuwa talks: UFC star wants boxing match to go ahead
DAVID HAYE and Jimi Manuwa are both keen to fight in an all-British version of Conor McGregor's crossover bout with Floyd Mayweather.
David Haye and Jimi Manuwa could face off in December when the boxer returns to fitness
Haye is currently recovering from an Achilles injury sustained during his heavyweight defeat to Tony Bellew earlier this month.
But the British boxer is aiming for a return to the ring in December and mixed martial arts star Manuwa suggested he should be the next man to face him after punching out Corey Anderson at the top of the UFC London bill.
"David Haye, let’s do this - we're two of the hardest hitters in London," Manuwa said.
"I think that the fight makes sense.
"Conor [McGregor] wants to fight Mayweather, why not have me against David Haye on the same card?"
And now 36-year-old Haye, who understood to be planning four or five major bouts before retiring, has responded to the challenge for the first time.
Jimi Manuwa highlights
“The answer is a resounding yes," Haye said.
“I was very impressed with his quick knockout the other night at the O2 Arena.
"If any of the mixed martial artists can convert over to be a successful boxer he has definitely got the body shape and style to do so.
Jimi Manuwa knocked out Corey Anderson at UFC London on his last outing
"We have heard from Manuwa’s management and UFC so it is something that we are looking at at the moment.
"Obviously it is a little way off being confirmed.
"But it is a fight that would unify a lot of the fans from both UFC and boxing and make a mega-event."
David Haye was outboxed by Tony Bellew on his last outing in the ring
Conor McGregor and Floyd Mayweather are already trying to fix up a massive both in September.
McGregor has not fought in the UFC since November and is taking an extended break ahead of the birth of his first child.
The unbeaten Mayweather meanwhile has confirmed he is out of retirement for what will be the most lucrative fight of all time.
The Irishman says he is targeting a September date but talks are said to be ongoing.