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Harrison ready to beat Haye in race to the Klitschkos

Audley Harrison is convinced he is close to a world title shot © Getty Images

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Audley Harrison has taunted David Haye by claiming he will beat the world WBA heavyweight champion to the punch when it comes to getting into the ring with one of the Klitschko brothers.

Harrison goes looking for revenge against Michael Sprott in a European heavyweight title clash on Friday, after Sprott knocked out the Olympic gold medallist back in 2007. Harrison's original opponent was meant to be Albert Sosnowski, who had to vacate the bout after being called to become Vitali Klitschko's next opponent.

That shows Harrison that he could be just one victory away from a crack at one of the Klitschkos himself, which is the ultimate dream of Haye. "The Hayemaker" recently laughed off the suggestion of an all-England clash with Harrison, but it is the 38-year-old California-based Londoner who may have the last laugh.

"Let's keep it real. To get the Nikolai Valuev fight David signed with Golden Boy, Sauerland Events and Don King. That's three promoters who have got options on him and everyone will be pulling in a different direction," Harrison said in the Daily Mirror.

"The main thing is that I can win my next fight and then I will be looking at a world title fight. I will be in there with a shout calling out the Klitschkos because they are looking for challengers. I could definitely fight one of them before David does.

"I'm very close to a world title shot, as close as I've ever been. You've seen how quick Albert Sosnowski got his title shot after only winning the title in December. The Klitschkos are going through challengers and running out of opponents.

"Vitali has fought four mandatory challengers since he has come back. Someone like myself, an Olympic gold medallist, winning the European title, will be right in the frame. It's going to be a reality."

As for the Sprott fight, Harrison admits he simply cannot afford to lose at Alexandra Palace.

"It's s*** or bust or die this time, that's where I'm at. I'm bringing everything to the table. Losing isn't an option. I want to be a world champion."

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