SO many names have been speculated as the opponent for David Haye’s next fight. The “Hayemaker” continues his comeback on May 21 in London and, before he annihilated WBA No. 10 Mark de Mori a few weeks ago, indicated his desire to climb the world rankings. Rewarded for that facile victory with a No. 9 slot from the WBA – an organisation whose gold Haye has worn at two weights – who is a realistic rival for David’s next assignment?

Early favourites Malik Scott and Dillian Whyte appear unlikely as the former is only rated 12th by the WBC and the latter fails to bring a high ranking for any of the four major sanctioning bodies. Five of the WBA’s top six have become involved – some perhaps unwittingly – in their ‘tournament’, while No. 8 Antonio Tarver had a recent positive drug test, making approval by the British Boxing Board of Control unlikely. Veteran Shannon Briggs is No. 4 and would certainly sell the fight with his crazy antics, but more likely may be seventh-ranked Russian Andrey Fedosov or Bryant Jennings, a Philadelphian rated below Haye for the WBA but at 11 for the WBC and well respected.

Boxing News spoke to Fedosov’s manager, Vadim Kornilov, and Jennings promoter, Gary Shaw, for their views on the next Haye Day and more.

Kornilov on Andrey Fedosov
We can consider the Haye fight. Andrey is a great puncher, very confident and has a lot of potential to become better. We have relationships with networks in the United States; Fedosov has become the champion of the Boxcino tournament on ESPN. It was one of the most watched boxing tournaments. I think that our main focus is to makes sure that Fedosov continues to fight on TV because the fans already know him.

Shaw on Bryant Jennings
I have not heard from Haye’s people but we would take that fight if the money was right. Early on in his career Haye impressed me but then he started to go downhill, I don’t know why. I believe Bryant would like to come to the UK.