Holyfield shows Haye the way
BBC Sport in Nuremberg
It's a question you'll hear being asked a lot over the coming days: "How is a little fella like him going to beat a giant like that?" It's what makes Saturday's heavyweight title fight in Nuremberg so enticing. The fact not even David Haye knows the answer elevates it to essential viewing.
"You can't train for someone who's 7ft tall, there's no 100% correct way to do it," Londoner Haye, who is challenging for Nikolay Valuev's WBA belt, told BBC Sport. "I've never had to do it before. I can only tell you after the fight whether it was the right thing or not."
Valuev stands nine inches taller than Haye and the Russian will enter the ring approximately 100lbs, or just over seven stone, heavier. Former Valuev foe John Ruiz likened his head to a Volkswagen. Ruslan Chagaev, the only man to beat him in 51 fights, said it was "like hitting a heavy bag in the gym - only heavier".
A man conceding similar advantages in height and weight to Haye would be roughly the size of a peak Leo Sayer. It's sobering stuff - although spare a thought for Alarim Uysal, the Turk who fought Valuev back in 1997. Giving away 159lb - or a prime Marvin Hagler - he was stopped in the second round and hardly fought again.
As Chagaev proved in 2007, however, the giant can be slain. A 46-year-old Evander Holyfield proved it again last December, although he was robbed of the decision. Holyfield was pretty poor that night, but Valuev was poorer. It's just that the ringside judges were watching a different fight.
"Haye should concentrate on his speed, moving in and out, hitting and moving, like I did," Chagaev, who poked and chiselled out a narrow decision in Stuttgart, told BBC Sport. "You need to be fast and have good movement, but David has the same skills as me."
Chagaev, who at 6ft 1in is two inches shorter than Haye, spent the early rounds casing the almighty joint towering over him and formulating a plan. Valuev being the 'home' fighter (his promoters are German), such a strategy, potentially costing rounds, has obvious risks. But it's a strategy Haye would be advised to copy, rather than going in all guns blazing.
"He's got the advantage of being able to do exactly what he's always done," admits Haye. "I'm going to have to do things in this fight I've never done before. I'll have to make some adjustments, but I'm good at adapting to opponents and figuring things out once I'm there."
While there are lessons to be learned from Chagaev - the incessant circling, the hitting and moving, the lefts over the low right hand - his win was, to a large degree, down to Valuev's inability to get to grips with his southpaw stance.
Haye, right-handed like Holyfield, will take greater heart from the efforts of the former four-time world heavyweight champion and, like Haye, former cruiserweight king.
"He's got to be aggressive," Holyfield, who was anything but when he fought Valuev, told BBC Sport. "But if you move in slow, he's going to catch you with the big right hand.
Evander Holyfield scores with a jab during his December 2008 contest with Valuev
"You've got to slip your head and get in real quick. I made him reach for me, so that any time he had to lean in and step to jab, his head came down and he was easier to hit.
"Once he gets that punch out there, he's not terribly fast, so if you slip that shot, you come in aggressive and swing for his head. Then you hit him with a couple of shots, get back out and keep doing the same thing.
"It's a boring type of fight, but it's the way you're going to get him. It's not difficult, you just have to have the patience and keep on moving. Keep moving, keep moving, keep moving. Because if he sees you coming, he's going to drop the big right hand.
"If you watch my fight against him (you can do just that on YouTube), I hit him two or three times and moved sideways, and for him to get round takes a lot of energy.
"So he's always cautious because when I hit and move to the side he has to turn that big body of his and he ends up going round in circles and is never able to set his feet."
At 29, Haye's lateral movement should be a good deal more fluid than Holyfield's, and his hands should be far quicker too. But Holyfield believes striking the right balance between patience and aggression will be the key to Haye winning the fight.
"If you put too much pressure on yourself trying to knock a big buy like that out you're going to telegraph the punches and it's going to be easy for him to hit you," adds Holyfield.
"You're going to shoot yourself out of gas and he's going to pick you off. That's a desperate way to fight."
Haye doesn't have to fight desperate to beat Valuev, because Valuev, for all his might, really isn't that good. Slow, cumbersome, poor at pressing, Haye has the tools to beat him, even without a slingshot. But only if he can control those gung-ho urges.
For if there is a question mark hanging over Haye, it concerns his chin. Valuev mercifully doesn't punch his weight - if he did, boxing would probably have been banned some time ago - but he still hits hard enough to floor rivals with jabs, as he demonstrated against Monte Barrett in 2006.
It has to be hoped Haye will use Holyfield as a template, only crank up the energy a couple of notches and throw considerably more punches. He'll just have to hope the judges don't have an off night again.
Throw caution to the wind, stand and trade, and he could go the way of Barrett, careening round the ring like a truck with a blowout. Goliath, the "circus show freak", would have had his revenge.
Hello. I have been working for the BBC for more than a decade now and cover almost all sports. It would be good to hear from you - just don't be nasty or my mum might get upset.
Here are 
Comment number 1.
At 09:20 2nd Nov 2009, coxy0001 wrote:The only danger of Haye losing is if he goes for the jugular (like he did in the Thomson fight), Valuev absorbs his best shots and then KO's Haye as he's punched himself out for the night. On the other hand i'll be desperately worried for him if it goes the full 12, the scoring in some German fights has been utterly horrendously biased towards the home fighter (Sven Ottke got more gifts than a 5 year old kid at Christmas).
Valuev isn't very good at all, a 30% version of the old Holyfield beat him (and got robbed) and i fully expect Haye to beat him by late KO or by a UD, by something like a 117-110. Then he could maybe fight someone like Arreola? Would get his profile up in America...
Complain about this comment (Comment number 1)
Comment number 2.
At 09:30 2nd Nov 2009, Ryushinku wrote:Thing is, Haye has not been a bomb-swinging wild abandon kind of fighter these days. He's been a set counter-puncher for years now. He doesn't throw many shots but instead looks for the opening before unloading. Things like the quick Maccarinelli were simply down to Enzo not being able to take his punches rather than a blizzard of shots.
And that's good news here because that's what works well against Valuev. Move, draw him out and counter. You can't underestimate the giant, something like the Liakhovich fight shows what he's capable of when you don't give him angles, but Haye can go the twelve and get the decision here.
I really hope he does, because Haye as a belt holder offers up a lot more interesting options that Valuev does. Niko seems a nice guy but he's really disappointed recently and King seems to have the WBA in his pocket in terms of keeping them away from any hopes of unification. If Haye wins, Haye-Ruiz would have to happen next but then his dance card is free...
Complain about this comment (Comment number 2)
Comment number 3.
At 09:34 2nd Nov 2009, Strongback wrote:Coxy0001 I agree with your points about Haye's stamina and getting a points win in Germany.
Haye has never fought in a controlled patient style so I think there is a chance he could get frustrated and start throwing bombs. Haye will need to be very mature and just slowly chip away. In my opinion there is no possibility of Valuev getting knocked out so Haye will have to fight for 12 rounds. Haye must conserve energy.
The danger of leaving a decision to judges in Germany is something Holyfield knows all about. There is a very delicate balance to be struck, Haye must do enough good work to impress the judges without punching himself out.
All in all I thing Haye will have enough but I just hope he doesn't get robbed by a poor decision.
Complain about this comment (Comment number 3)
Comment number 4.
At 10:15 2nd Nov 2009, riley_ives wrote:I think haye will win. Valuev too slow and if a washed up hollifield can beat him (though not according to judges) then haye will as long as he fights smart. He needs to use his speed and quickness and as long as he keeps concentration and sticks to his plan he will probably win in rounds 7 or 8.
what time is the fight scheduled to start? I know it's in Germany but is going to be on to tie in with american audiences or around the 10-11pm for prime time european time.
Complain about this comment (Comment number 4)
Comment number 5.
At 11:06 2nd Nov 2009, coxy0001 wrote:Coverage starts at 8pm, i don't know if they're planning on showing an undercard etc but i suspect the fight will start around 10pm or so... but don't quote me on it!
Complain about this comment (Comment number 5)
Comment number 6.
At 12:28 2nd Nov 2009, JamesAVFC wrote:I hope for British boxing that Haye wins. I think he will dominate the fight but if he loses concentration in later rounds then he could get caught out by the monster.
Its Haye's fight to lose
Complain about this comment (Comment number 6)
Comment number 7.
At 14:23 2nd Nov 2009, roo-is-class wrote:I'm very excited about this fight but my concern with Haye is his chin. Monty hurt him with his jabs, so if he gets caught with a big right from Valuev, I fear it would be game over.
I'm behind Haye all the way and hope he's smart in the ring. One thing I will predict is that it won't be a snore fest. I'm expecting some punishment to be dealt out from both fighters. God, I'm getting in to a frenzy now. Time for some fresh me thinks.
Complain about this comment (Comment number 7)
Comment number 8.
At 14:50 2nd Nov 2009, jim liv wrote:Hi,
im currently on holiday in Orlando Florida but would dearly love to see this fight. Does anyone know if its being shown over hear ? and if so what channel ?. Or is it being streamed or anything ? Jim Liv.
Complain about this comment (Comment number 8)
Comment number 9.
At 17:55 2nd Nov 2009, beusset wrote:Let's be honest: is there anyone out there who has ever enjoyed watching a Valuev fight?????
The guy is just not nice to watch, boxing wise, and I am not even criticizing his physical appearance (not really his fault).
On the contrary, Haye is destined to an exciting future in the heavyweight division.
I am not a great fan of his teasing stunts and constant insulting behavior but if he feels that gives him the edge prior to a fight, who can blame him??
There have always been some trash-talkers in boxing, it's just part of the character.
In my opinion, Valuev could surprise with an early KO (remember the heartbreak we suffered when Manny destroyed Hatton 5 months ago) but I think Haye will get the win with an unanimous decision.
Nevertheless, I expect him to suffer more than in any other fights he's ever fought before. He will need to show a lot of patience, courage and a good chin.
Anyway, I can't wait for him to take on one of the Klitschko brother.
Let's enjoy the fight, guys.
Complain about this comment (Comment number 9)
Comment number 10.
At 19:44 2nd Nov 2009, Bobnweave wrote:This comment was removed because the moderators found it broke the house rules. Explain.
Complain about this comment (Comment number 10)
Comment number 11.
At 10:16 3rd Nov 2009, Rob Ilechuku wrote:There is an error of fact in your article: "Haye's tall Order". Cooper's knock-down of Cassius Clay occurred in the closing moments of the 4th round. A round later, the 5th, Clay TKOed Cooper on cuts. Your article gives the impression that the end came in the 4th round. This was not the case.
Complain about this comment (Comment number 11)
Comment number 12.
At 10:30 3rd Nov 2009, Chris wrote:I haven't looked forward to a fight as much as this one for a long time. Whatever the respective skill levels of the Haye and Valuev, Valuev's size and strength can't be ignored, making Haye an underdog. And there's nothing like cheering for an underdog with the skill to win.
Complain about this comment (Comment number 12)
Comment number 13.
At 11:23 3rd Nov 2009, bendirs wrote:Signon77 - yes, you're ruddy well right! I'll get that sorted. Sorry!
Complain about this comment (Comment number 13)
Comment number 14.
At 12:42 3rd Nov 2009, lee fett wrote:I know this fight's going to be boring as anything but I still can't wait! I'm going all out for a Haye KO. He just has to win, if he doesn't then interest in the heavyweight division is going to wane even more.
I can understand why people don't like Haye, he talks a lot of rubbish a lot of the time. But to be honest I'd rather see that than see two guys talking about mutual respect and how much they admire each other before a fight. Its pretty simple, animosity beforehand creates interest in a fight which then creates more money.
At least he's trying to do something though, I haven't been able to find one comment relating to Valuev in the build up to this. Its as if the guy's only in boxing because he's built for it not because he actually cares about it at all. Chances are I'm wrong there but he does nothing to create interest in a fight and get the public licking their lips in anticipation.
As much as I enjoy boxing, if Haye doesn't win on Saturday night I don't think I'll be watching heavyweight boxing for a while. As much as a fighter needs a good jab, there's nothing worse than seeing a guy do nothing but jab for 10-12 rounds like we constantly get with the Klitschko's and Valuev. If something isn't entertaining and engaging people won't want to tune in and those guys are neither.
Complain about this comment (Comment number 14)
Comment number 15.
At 12:53 3rd Nov 2009, roo-is-class wrote:Ben Dirs,
Changing the subject quickly, I just had a look at your all time British pound for pound ratings and I realise the page hasn't been updated in a while. The page talks about Hatton making his first defence of his World title. That was back in 2005!
I think it's time to update that one.
Complain about this comment (Comment number 15)
Comment number 16.
At 14:08 3rd Nov 2009, Mr_Pilks wrote:I know haye is a British fighter and he has got a lot of talent and as a Brit i should support him whole heartedly!! I know all this.....but i can't help but hope that Valuev absolutely destroys him!! Post fight interviews would be much more interesting if Haye had been embarrassed by the big man.
Having said that from a boxing point of view i would love to see Haye win. He has the talent to do so but i do think he will get knocked down at some point in the fight.
The potential line ups for future fights are so much more interesting with Haye in them than without.
Complain about this comment (Comment number 16)
Comment number 17.
At 17:11 3rd Nov 2009, Michael Sloyan wrote:Evander Holyfield who is a smaller man than David Haye and very much older, exposed all of the weaknesses in Valuev's armour. Valuev is not a big puncher and certainly cannot punch his weight. He is clumsy, flat footed and an easy target for fast heavy hands which Haye has in abundance.
Most notably, Valuev has continually been exposed by a number of "small" heavyweights namely Chagaev (who beat him), Ruiz (who took him the distance twice)and of course Holyfield who was clearly robbed. Each of these guys were both older and smaller than Haye so it follows suit that it is Valuev who will have the major concerns on the night as he has the prospect of a hungry young fighter who is genuinely athletic, hard hitting...and above all smart. Add to that the fact that Valuev has not actually stopped anyone for over 3 years and my money is definitely on the little guy.
I am reminded of that Italian giant Primo Carnera who was seemingly invincible until a little guy called Max Baer came along and stopped him in his tracks. Valuev is a lumbering oaf waiting to be cut down to size and I genuinely feel Haye is the man to do the job.
https://www.boxrec.com/list_bouts.php?human_id=19904&cat=boxer
Complain about this comment (Comment number 17)
Comment number 18.
At 17:49 3rd Nov 2009, Dafydd Mali wrote:Your facts are wrong
Herbie Hide and Henry Akinwande were British world champions.
Complain about this comment (Comment number 18)
Comment number 19.
At 20:39 3rd Nov 2009, Strongback wrote:To Michael Sloyan
It is pretty much accepted that Primo Carnera, a Sicilian peasant, was a mafia controlled fighter. Carnera became world champ through fixed fights, many felt he won his world title when the then champ Jack Sharkey took a dive. I have read that Carnera was not aware of the fixes and actually believed he was a murderous puncher.
Carnera ran into problems when Max Baer could not be bought by the mob. Baer knocked out Primo and he lost the title. The mob then lost interest in Carnera and if you check his record he has nearly as many losses as wins in his subsequent fights after the Baer defeat.
(A bit of trivia, Jack Sharkey was named after Jack Dempsey and Sailor Tom Sharkey).
Complain about this comment (Comment number 19)
Comment number 20.
At 20:54 4th Nov 2009, bendirs wrote:Dafydd Mali - No they're not. At the bottom of the piece it reads: "Henry Akinwande (1996-97) and Herbie Hide (1997-98) were both WBO champions, but at a time when the belt was largely ignored by the top fighters of the day."
Complain about this comment (Comment number 20)