The 33 year-old was hoping that over 1000 enthusiasts would smash the current record of 498 which took place in Australia this year, but the Briton only managed to attract around 400.
Haye, who is set to fight again later this year following a career-threatening injury, is raising money for the Rashid Pediatric Centre for disabled children in Al Barsha and was positive despite falling short of hitting his target.
“Whether it breaks the record or not, I’m not that bothered,” Haye told Gulf News. “Obviously I’d love to break the record, but even if it doesn’t, the fact that so many people came down here to raise money and awareness for the Rashid Pediatric Centre is great.
“It was amazing to see everyone — young and old — come out and enjoy themselves. Hopefully they’ve seen that boxing can be a fun exercise tool without having to get hurt, it can also be a non-contact way of getting in shape and staying healthy.
“I’d love to make this an annual thing with more people and different sessions. Obviously, if this was the first one, it just goes to show you how successful it will be next year. These guys will tell everyone they know and we’ll have record numbers next time.”
‘The Hayemaker’ last fought almost two years ago in defeating Dereck Chisora over five rounds at Upton Park, with the one-time undisputed cruiserweight king set to announce details of his return in the next few weeks.
Follow on Twitter @PhilDJay for tweets of upcoming news on WBN
