Exclusive – Haye insists the public are demanding he beats up Fury

David Haye claims he is fighting Tyson Fury for just one reason - because the public are demanding he beats him up!

The former world heavyweight champion will take on his British rival at the end of next month in a fight he admits he never thought would happen.

He told Fight Club: “A year ago I wouldn’t have entertained the idea of a fight with Tyson Fury, but now people are talking about it being the biggest fight in the division.

“I haven’t had to sell this fight. Tyson is like a one-man show, out there making real noises.

“But the only reason this fight is happening is because people want me to beat him up. The public have demanded it.”

And Haye insists he has detected fear in his younger opponent.

“The first time I stood next to him and talked to him was at the first press conference and he wouldn’t look me in the eye,” he added. “He just wouldn’t engage. I could see the sweat on his palm when he was ranting about what he’s going to do to me. I didn’t get the idea he as confident as he’s making out.

 “To beat me, he would have to do something he’s never done before and be faster than he’s ever been. His speed in previous fights means he’s not quick enough to hit me cleanly. Everything I’ve seen from him, I know I can counter.

“He’s never been in the ring with someone who can do what I can do. I’ve got a plan for Fury and it’s not going to be fun for him at all.”