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Haye wins world titles in Paris

11/11/2007

David Haye has become the WBC and WBA cruiserweight champion of the world after beating Frenchman Jean-Marc Mormeck in Paris.

The Englishman recovered from a fourth round knock down to win the bout in the seventh round by technical knockout.

Haye delivered a punishing combination, catching Mormeck cleanly with three blows that sent him to the canvas. Although the 35-year-old belatedly got back to his feet the referee called a halt to proceedings.

It was a gutsy performance from Haye who had looked in trouble in the early part of the fight. The two fighters shared an even first round but Mormeck then began to dominate.

Mormeck floored Haye with a two-shot combination, although the 27-year-old did appear to slip a little as he was caught with the punches.

But he regained his composure and Mormeck allowed him to get back into the fight. The Frenchman was left to regret his lack of action when Haye floored him in the seventh.

Haye landed a right upper cut, a left and a right hook to send his man to the floor and although Mormeck recovered he did not do so quickly enough.

The Londoner was pleased with the way he had fought back during the fight and also paid tribute to his opponent.

He said: "I worked my way back into the fight and showed great heart. This guy was very tough but I showed patience and class."

Haye, whose record improves to 20 wins and one defeat, said he would like to take on Welsh WBO champion Enzo Maccarinelli in his next fight.