Haye, in his promotional capacity for the first time at London’s Indigo at The O2 Arena on Friday night, watched on as Joyce battered and stopped UK contender Ian Lewison in eight rounds.
Speaking in the aftermath, the ‘Hayemaker’ outlined his fast-track plan to put Joyce firmly in the picture with the top domestic fighters.
“Believe me, tonight was only 30-40 percent of what I know he has. Not many heavyweights could grind down and stop an opponent like Lewison,” said a beaming Haye.
“I’m very comfortable for him to get in and fight for the British or Commonwealth title in his next fight. He knows he made a couple of mistakes, but he’ll be even more clinical next time.”
Joyce himself added: “It’s really good to get the first one out of the way. Respect to Lewison — he’s a tough opponent.
“I had to be very careful because he had power in those shots. I couldn’t switch off. I took him apart with my jab.”
Sexton recently defeated Gary Cornish to pick up the vacant Lonsdale Belt and would potentially be the more realistic encounter to make in order to keep Joyce busy.
As Thomas and Allen have a rematch on October 28, it could be months before either is ready if they endure a tough battle as when the last time they met.
Sexton, on the other hand, could potentially be ready in December and give Joyce an attempt to round out his first year as a pro with a title around his waist on the back of just two outings.
