Australian bomber Lucas Browne believes the return of potential future opponent David Haye is healthy for the heavyweight division.
The undefeated 36-year-old is in Haye’s firing line since the former WBA title-holder announced his return to action following a three-year absence.
Haye declared WBA number ten ranked and Browne compatriot Mark De Mori as his opponent on January 16. The fight takes place at the O2 Arena in London.
A win for Haye in the New Year gives him a sufficient rating to challenge the champion in a voluntary capacity. It means the winner of Chagaev v Browne could conceivably open negotiations with ‘The Hayemaker’ in the spring.
“I think it’s a good thing that David Haye is back,” Browne told World Boxing News.
“Haye has already won the WBA title before so it’s understandable that he’s back along that path. If it’s a fight that can happen in the future, I’d be more than happy to face him.
“I’m just waiting on my own title shot with Chagaev. I will know more about it soon.”
Asked whether Haye can still be a force at 200 pounds plus despite 40 months out, Browne replied: “It’s a long time to be out. I think it could be hard for Haye.
“But he will still be too quick for Mark De Mori, in my opinion. Even though I think De Mori has a shot.”
DAVID HAYE
Haye, 35, has already named fellow-Brit Anthony Joshua as a potential future opponent should he get his career back on an even keel.
Browne says the one-time cruiserweight king could be the perfect foe to finally give ‘AJ’ some trouble.
“Anthony Joshua is still untested over 12 rounds. He has never really been hit on the chin. So of course, Haye would have a chance as he hits really hard.
“It would be interesting to see how Joshua reacted to a solid shot,” he added.
Reigning Olympic champion Joshua hasn’t been over three rounds since turning pro in 2013 and fights Dillian Whyte on December 12 for the British title belt.
For Browne, the Aussie is just waiting to learn the date and venue for his maiden world title shot against the ‘regular’ champion, which is expected to head Chagaev’s home turf of Russia in the first few months of 2016.
