Thursday 1 September 2016 13:59, UK
David Haye could be in line to challenge for the WBA heavyweight title next year, says the governing body's president Gilberto Mendoza.
The former two-division world champion has risen to No 5 in the WBA rankings after two victories this year, putting him in contention for a future shot at the organisation's 'regular' title, with Tyson Fury recognised as its 'super' champion.
Lucas Browne will likely face Fres Oquendo for the belt next, after winning a legal dispute with the WBA following its decision to strip him for failing a drugs test following his shock win over champion Ruslan Chagaev in March.
But Mendoza confirmed Haye, who held the WBA heavyweight title between November 2009 and July 2011, is firmly in the mix.
He exclusively told Sky Sports: "Browne's title shot came out of a legal settlement we had to do after we got sued by Browne's people for stripping him.
"I think the WBA grounds were very strong. He took us to court and we settled for giving him a title opportunity.
We would love to have David Haye back as our champion, that's what I can tell you, but boxing is complicated, it's not easy
"If by that time, David is a leading available contender, that fight could happen, but then we have on the other hand Fres Oquendo, who has a court order saying that he must have a chance to fight for the championship.
"We would love to have David Haye back as our champion, that's what I can tell you, but boxing is complicated, it's not easy."
Confirming negotiations were under way to pit Browne against Oquendo, Mendoza said: "That's what we ordered. We have been listening to the promoters, that's a very tough fight to sell.
"That's a very tough fight to make because of the amounts of money, but they are negotiating right now. We'll see what the outcome is."
Haye was expected to face Shannon Briggs before the end of the year, but the fight is yet to be announced and Mendoza would like to see the Bermondsey fighter maintain his position as a title contender.
"In a theoretical way, David Haye would receive a title opportunity," said Mendoza. "I don't know if in 2016, but perhaps at the beginning of next year.
"He is high in the ranking, but obviously he will have to be active and fight other boxers."
