BBBC considers withholding part of Audley Harrison’s purse
The British Boxing Board of Control is considering withholding part of Audley Harrison’s $1.61-million purse following his third round knockout loss to WBA heavyweight titlist David Haye on Saturday night,
dailypost.co.uk reports.
Harrison fought a dismal three rounds and failed to perform at a world class level to most, despite being a former Olympic gold medallist. In light of his epic failure to perform, the BBBC have indicated they will "have to consider" whether or not Harrison
should be punished financially.
"It is a very difficult course to take to stop someone getting paid when they have just frozen [in the ring]," Robert Smith, BBBC secretary said. "But rescinding some of Audley Harrison's purse is something which we will have to consider."
Smith continued and said that they were considering potential punishment because they felt that the performance let down thousands of fans expecting a competitive, exciting fight.
"You have to bear in mind it was such a letdown for the 22,000 at the MEN Arena and the thousands watching at home," Smith said. "[In the past] the board have rescinded purses when we feel a fighter has not tried. He did nothing all night."
Many have compared Harrison’s petrified performance to that of Joshua Clottey last March. Clottey fought Manny Pacquiao, widely considered the best fighter in the world, and essentially remained inactive for the bout, failing to engage his opponent or even
throw punches.
Big time British boxing promoter Frank Warren indicated Harrison should have to pay for his performance. He informed
The Sun, "The board have withheld purses for a whole lot less than this."
Though the win has done little to advance David Haye’s reputation as a top heavyweight in the world, it has placed him in unavoidable contention with the Klitschko brothers, who hold three of four major heavyweight titles. Many expect Haye to clash with
one of them in the near future to determine the best of the best.
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