David Haye was stopped on three ocassions as a professional but the biggest puncher he ever faced was a fighter he defeated.
Despite enduring tough stoppage losses to Tony Bellew, twice, and Carl Thompson, Haye is adamant that Monte Barrett is the hardest puncher he ever stepped in the ring with during his 32-fight career.
In 2008, after taking care of business at cruiserweight with world title wins against Jean Mormeck and Enzo Maccaranelli, Haye made the move to heavyweight.
His first opponent on his pursuit to title glory amongst boxing’s big men was Barrett and Haye has nothing but praise for the American’s power.
"I remember him hitting me and being shocked at the difference in punch power between him and the cruiserweights,” said Haye when speaking to The Ring.
“He was a very heavy-handed guy.”