David Haye reveals freak accident that forced him to pull out of Tony Bellew blockbuster rematch
DAVID HAYE has been forced to pull out of his blockbuster rematch with Tony Bellew.
The heavyweight picked up his bicep injury in the most bizarre fashion while training for the clash.
He released a statement explaining exactly what had happened: “I am devastated to announce my much-anticipated rematch against Tony Bellew has been postponed until March 24 or May 5, subject to scheduling.
“Despite the recent injury rumours, I was in perfect condition with an incredibly strong training camp, currently weighing lighter than I have for more than five years.
"I couldn’t wait to get back in the ring. I was ready to rewrite the ending of the Haye Bellew saga.
“Unfortunately, after a freak accident during a stair conditioning session, which I’ve done with no incident hundreds of times, I lost my footing, slipped, so instinctively grabbed the bannister to stop myself toppling down the stairwell, in doing so I somehow managed to damage my bicep in the process.
"This afternoon I underwent a procedure to repair it, this was pretty straightforward and my doctor and physiotherapist have no doubt that not only will I make a full recovery but will be able to be back in the gym to start my arm rehabilitation in two weeks.
“I would like to apologise to Tony, his family and his training team, as well as all our fans who have been left disappointed.
IT'S OFF David Haye out of Tony Bellew rematch with freak arm injury but rivals could meet in spring
"I’ve been solely focused on this fight and it’s extremely frustrating that I couldn’t finish 2017 with just my ring performance doing the talking.
"I look forward to getting back to training and into the ring in early 2018 with excitement and determination.”
The two fighters were scheduled to clash on December 17 at London's O2 Arena, but the fight will now take place in March or May.
The 37-year-old, who has endured an injury-ridden career, has been told to quit boxing after pulling out of the rematch by a mob of angry fans.
