by James Slater: He’s been inactive as of late and he hasn’t won a fight since late 2006, but former world champion Shannon Briggs isn’t being quiet. In an interview with Setanta Sports, Briggs told of his desire to go up against cruiserweight star David Haye, once “The Hayemaker” makes his move up north to the big guys’ weight class..
“I’m looking forward to fighting soon, hopefully in September, “Briggs began. “I know Klitschko won’t fight me, that’s not going to happen. He’s afraid of me. But David Haye, I mean if he’s serious about being a heavyweight – I can’t see it, I’ve seen him in person and he’s a little guy. But if he goes for it, why not. Hopefully he’ll [Haye] be a big draw in England where I can come over there and fight him – actually, I might be moving over to [live in] England,” the 36 year old added.
Haye may be a “little guy” compared to the huge Briggs, but there wouldn’t be too many fans out there willing to put their money on Briggs should a fight with the frighteningly powerful Haye come off. With his speed and accuracy, along with his desire, Haye would likely have Briggs gassed and holding on after a few rounds. But that’s just this writer’s opinion. Briggs continued speaking of his desire to box a British heavyweight though.
“There’s a lot of great fighters in England,” Briggs claimed. “Danny Williams is a great fighter and even Matt Skelton is a very good fighter. I was over there two months ago, and I’m looking forward to going back to England,” the former champ concluded.
It’s interesting the praise Briggs gives Williams. A great fighter? Again, it’s doubtful too many would agree with “The Cannon.” Williams is a decent, if unreliable heavyweight, but he is far from great. As for Skelton, I’d actually pick Matt to beat Briggs should a fight between those two come off. Desire is the name of the game there – and Skelton’s way overmatches that of Briggs.
He can still talk a good fight, but unfortunately, though he remains a recognisable name, Shannon has not fought a good fight for far too long. Still, a Haye-Briggs bout, in a large arena somewhere in the U.K, would very likely result in a sell out. There are worse credible opponents out there for Haye once he re-debuts at heavyweight.