• Boxing

Klitschkos desperate to 'shut up' Haye in 2010 fight

ESPN staff
March 10, 2010
David Haye won the WBA heavyweight belt in November 2009 © Getty Images
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Vitali Klitschko is desperate to shut David Haye up by knocking him out in the ring this year.

Haye, who defends his WBA heavyweight title against John Ruiz on April 3, has repeatedly stated his desire to become the division's unified champion. To do so he must defeat Vitali and brother Wladimir, who together hold every heavyweight belt except for the Haye's WBA strap.

The 38-year-old wants to seal a clean sweep of championships for his family by taking on the Londoner. "I keep my fingers crossed that Haye beats Ruiz," Vitali said. "Not because I like him, but because I want to win his title and shut his mouth."

According to WBC champion Vitali, who defends against Albert Sosnowski in May, Wladimir shares his keenness to silence Haye.

"I told my brother, 'I want to fight Haye'. He said no because he wants to fight him. My brother already has the WBO, IBO and IBF belts, so I have to clear it with him. Let's just hope my younger brother listens to me. He must always respect old people."

Vitali has stated that he will retire from the ring in 2010, setting up the tantalising prospect of a bout against Haye this year should both fighters successfully negotiate their imminent defences.

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.
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