Boxing promoter Eddie Hearn says former world heavyweight champion David Haye "badly" needs a rematch to avenge his loss to Tony Bellew, but that a world title shot for the Liverpudlian could scupper those plans.
Bellew has been touted to fight for a world title after beating Haye in March, but speaking to Sky Sports this week, Hearn says it's in Haye's best interest to seek a rematch before Bellew moves on to other prospective bouts.
"Haye needs this fight badly, there is no other fight for him other than Tony Bellew," he said. "On the other hand, there are many fights for Tony, but it's not a case of going to Haye and holding him to ransom.
"We were given the opportunity to fight Haye in a deal that Tony didn't believe was fair, but ultimately I convinced him. We were glad we took that fight, but there were elements and aspects of that deal that were condescending.
"Very simply, Tony now wants the flip of that deal. He wants what David had last time, and vice versa."
He added: "Haye said after the first fight that he knows there are many things he has to do in the rematch and he has to give Tony respect, if he does that then the rematch can happen and can be done very quickly."
Bellew beat Haye via TKO in the 11th round of their bout in London's O2 Arena and Hearn has reaffirmed his belief that Bellew could take on Joseph Parker for a shot at his heavyweight title.
"The public want to see the rematch and although I believe Tony can beat WBO champion Joseph Parker and become heavyweight champion of the world, part of me wants the Haye rematch so that Tony can show he can win that fight without any excuses."
David Haye (right) takes on Tony Bellew during the heavyweight contest at The O2. Image: Nick Potts/PA Wire/PA Images
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