David Haye Fined £25,000 Over Pre-Tony Bellew Fight Behaviour

David Haye has been fined £25,000 by the British Boxing Board of Control (BBBofC) over his behaviour in the build-up to his bout with Tony Bellew. The former heavyweight world champion graphically described injuries he hoped to inflict on Bellew in the run-up to March’s stoppage defeat. Haye, 36, admitted his comments brought boxing into disrepute. The board believes that Bellew’s behaviour improved after both fighters were warned days before the bout.
The BBBofC condemned both boxers’ behaviour which included a heated news conference in Liverpool and a media event in London. According to records on the BBBofC website, Haye made a donation and apologised for his behaviour to the Southern Area Council at a meeting three days before the bout. WBC cruiserweight champion Bellew, 34, was given a four-month suspended suspension by the board in December as a result of his ringside behaviour when he called Haye out following victory over BJ Flores in October. Further misdemeanours could have seen his licence withdrawn before the meeting with Haye.
Haye said after the fight that he expected to be fined for his pre-fight comments. He intends on returning to the ring after recovering from Achilles surgery.