Haye is worth his due
David Haye is now a proud owner of a heavyweight title. You would think everyone would be delighted especially those who have any interest in or connection with the noble art.
But no sooner had David walked away victorious from battle with the twentieth century version of Goliath, the sceptics were soon throwing their doubting shots in his direction.
I tuned into Five Live's sports week programme on Sunday morning only to hear a sports writer down playing the Hayemaker's achievement. The argument was that Valuev is not the most talented heavyweight, so maybe we shouldn't get carried away by what David done.
Frank Warren was also a guest who alluded to the limited credentials of Valuev.
Previous to this many had written and spoken that David wouldn't have the chin, heart or discipline to walk away standing and title in hand.
It makes me laugh when rival promoters say things that can diminish the wider perception of a sporting success. Okay, so Valuev will never go down as one of the all time greats, but let's get one thing straight, Haye never takes the easy road.
When you talk about the Bermondsey boy, let's remember that firstly he wanted to take on either and both of the Klitschko brothers in their own back yard.
Add to this the fact that Haye has recovered from his only professional set back and gone on to win world titles at two weights, both overseas and here you can see a man who deserves all the praise he can get.
Haye has made it clear from day one that he wants to prove he is the best by fighting and beating the best. To think he got a decision in a country that is touted as the toughest speaks volumes.
No, Haye will not be one to have a multitude of defences, but in his short time, he will provide great excitement in the ring, and draw a great out side and mainstream interest in boxing.
Maybe, just maybe, the TV networks will see the logic of backing a fighter who is able to back up what he says.
So promoters, writers and boxing observers, get behind Haye and give him his due.
