The WBC champion was keen to break up his usual routine, having openly admitted to becoming "too comfortable" in the lead up to previous fights.

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For a fighter who only turned professional in February and boasted just four previous wins from five fights, David showed some classy touches and gave Magee some difficulty.

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However, Frank Bruno hailed Haye's bravery in taking on and beating the 7ft Valuev, who had only lost one of his previous 51 fights.

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Martinez, who won the title from Essex fighter Nicky Cook in Manchester inside four rounds last March, had twice defended his title convincingly and won 15 of his 25 previous fights within the distance.

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