Thursday 9 March 2017 17:10, UK
Tony Bellew has admitted he would welcome a British battle against Tyson Fury if the former world heavyweight champion is cleared to return to boxing.
Fury sparked speculation about his future plans when he announced a comeback date on social media, although British and Irish boxing authorities along with UKAD have not given him the green light to fight again.
Bellew is considering one more bout at heavyweight after Saturday's sensational win over David Haye and would not rule out a huge domestic clash with Fury.
Asked about a fight with Fury, Bellew told Sky Sports: "Why wouldn't I, is the question? Why wouldn't I? Yes I would.
"If everything goes well and he passes everything he needs to pass then it's a fight that can potentially happen, yes it is."
Fury's reign as champion was cut short when he took a break from the sport to deal with his problems outside the ring, but Bellew still holds the 28-year-old in high regard for his world title victory over Wladimir Klitschko in November 2015.
"I rate Tyson Fury highly," said Bellew. "A very, very good fighter. Let's not forget what he done in Germany. He done the unthinkable, no-one gave him a hope, and he went there and done it.
"A man who has fought the odds like me, we're champion of the misfits. Doesn't aesthetically look very beautiful, similar to me, but the man can fight, he can really, really fight."
