This could well be the final time that one or both fighters take to the ring
Tony Bellew and David Haye are definitely in the autumn of their respective careers and a devastating defeat for either in the repeat of their grudge match could well force the loser into retirement.
Bellew has repeatedly hinted at hanging up his gloves, while Haye is going to turn 38 in October.
The pair of British rivals will do battle for the second time on Saturday night and they’re both set to take home a similar payday to that which they earned last March.
It’s understood that Haye earned more than ‘Bomber’ for their first fight, pocketing a grand total of £4.2 million once his cut of the pay-per-view revenue and sponsorship money was taken into account.
Both were guaranteed around £2.5 million for the bout, which Bellew won when Haye’s corner threw in the towel in the 11th round, and the Telegraph reports that the heavyweights are also going to earn a minimum of £2.5 million this time around.
🥊 David Haye vs. Tony Bellew 2: Revenge or repeat?
Either way, we'll be watching… 👀
w/ @WilliamHill pic.twitter.com/znWXEWbpx4
— JOE (@JOE_co_uk) May 4, 2018
What remains unclear for the rematch is who will earn more when all is said and done because Bellew is considered the A side this time, earning top billing and the final ring walk due to the fact that he came out on top last year.
Speaking about Haye’s desire to continue fighting, Bellew said: “Why can’t he just be honest and say: ‘Listen, I’ve earned £20 million, I’ve pissed it up the wall, I’ve gone through a few things and I need to get more money.’ Just be humble and say it.
“I wouldn’t be fighting. My legacy is secure. I don’t give a shit if everyone remembers me or not. That’s what these fights are about. Money. Don’t get me wrong: I want to win, and I’ll do whatever it takes. But I know what I’m saying: he’s back for money.”
