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Haye-Klitschko fight consider venue offers

David Haye's fight against Wladimir Klitschko could take place outside Germany © PA Photos

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Moscow and the United Arab Emirates are among a number of new venues vying to host David Haye's forthcoming heavyweight title fight against Wladimir Klitschko.

The eagerly-anticipated bout was previously expected to be held in Germany - where the Klitschkos enjoy widespread support and a positive relationship with television broadcasters - but a number of other possible hosts, including Switzerland, Monaco and South Africa, have been mentioned for a contest that could make £50 million.

With England already ruled out as a potential destination, Haye's trainer and manager Adam Booth believes a venue will be finalised in about a fortnight - once he has travelled to discuss matters with the Klitschkos' management, as well as American broadcasters.

"I think it will be wrapped up in the third week of April and it will be in Europe," Booth said. "It's taking a while to do as there are so many offers and venues to consider. Ideally the venue will be in Europe and indoors because we don't want to worry about rain.

"It's a bigger fight now than it was two years ago when David pulled out. Wladimir or Vitali have not had a fight as big as this before. When Vitali fought Lennox Lewis he was a late substitute remember and it wasn't a massive fight.

"There is no other fight as big as fighting David. It's as personal a fight as David has ever had."

The Klitschkos' manager, Bernd Boente, believes the fight will ultimately take place in Europe - and has no concerns that Wladimir will not be ready for the duel as the Ukrainian recovers from a stomach injury that forced his withdrawal from a fight against Dereck Chisora.

"I think he'll be fit. He'll start his training in mid-April or the start of May," Boente said. "We are waiting on different offers from venues. It could take place in Germany and there are two other options. It would be in a European time zone."

At the weekend Vitali Klitschko, who Haye hopes to fight after Wladimir, beat challenger Odlanier Solis inside the first round. Haye was dismissive of the WBC champion's Cuban opponent - who tore his cruciate ligament during the course of the fight.

"He will unfortunately go down as yet another fat bum," Haye said.

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.