TONY BELLEW

England, 34 years old, 29-2-1 (19)

LAST FIGHT:

Everyone thought Bellew had gone mad when he started calling out David Haye, and then feared for his safety when the fight was confirmed. But “Bomber” knew exactly what he was doing as everything he promised came true: Haye would go for the knockout early but his timing would be off; by round six he would be tired and his old body would start to break down. Nostradamus would have been proud when Bellew ended the bout in the 11th.

NEXT FIGHT:

After taking some time to consider his options, the Evertonian has decided to fight on. The rematch with Haye would do good business but Bellew – it appears – is setting his sights even higher. He recently engaged in a spat with Wilder, but it seems WBO boss Parker – by far the most beatable of the belt holders – is his No.1 target.

BEST ATTRIBUTE:

Besides his sheer bloody mindedness, Bellew is exceptionally savvy. No, he’s not the biggest puncher in the division but he carries faster hands than most of his rivals, and he can box to orders. The rage that lies within is unlikely to disappear, but he’s experienced enough to know exactly what he can do, and what he can’t. A man who knows themselves as well as he does is tough to beat.

WORST ATTRIBUTE?

He looked exhausted against Haye at times, and he’s too small to compete with the giants of the division.

WHO SHOULD HE AVOID?

The giants of the division.

HOW HIGH CAN HE GO?

Bellew has to remain realistic about his goals at heavyweight. It’s a brutal weight class and Bellew has already achieved so much. However, Parker looks beatable and one can understand why the former cruiserweight boss is looking at that fight, and a Haye return makes perfect sense for all involved. But how high? Maybe a little higher, but care should be taken with what he aims for.