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David Haye: Audley achieved a lot in his career

The former WBA world heavyweight champion David Haye has defended Audley Harrison after the 2000 Olympic champion announced his retirement from boxing. Harrison faced heavy criticism after being easily beaten by Haye when they fought for the world title in 2010.

But Haye said Harrison had achieved a lot in his career.

"I know he didn't lace a pair of gloves on until he was 18 or 19, I know he had a bit of a rough upbringing. So I'm sure if someone had said to him then that he would achieve all this - being a professional, European champion, world title challenger, Olympic champion - I'm sure he would have snatched that out of your hand and said 'thank you very much, I'll have that'.

"I'm sure you can look back through thousands of British boxers and boxers from around the world who haven't achieved a tenth of what Audley has done."

– David Haye, former WBA world champion