Audley Harrison returned to Britain this week ahead of his World Heavyweight title fight with David Haye – and has been met with a wave of public support ahead of their grudge match.
Harrison has set up camp in Haye's backyard of south London before moving up to Manchester ahead of the November 13 clash at the M.E.N Arena and the southpaw says he's been inundated with supporters as his date with destiny draws closer.
“I am overwhelmed by the support I have received from the British public,” said Harrison. “Through my Twitter page, Facebook and at AudleyHarrison.com, I have received thousands of messages of support and I am grateful that people are following my story and wishing me success.
“The majority of people understand my struggles and respect my determination and perseverance to overcome the odds and achieve my goals. As the fight draws close, David will be surprised to know that the British public are turning against him and I'll be satisfying their wishes by defeating him and bringing his ego back down to Earth.
“It's going to be tough, but I wouldn't want it any other way – YES I CAN!”
After a gruelling high-altitude training schedule in Big Bear Mountain, California, Harrison landed at Heathrow on the day of his 39th birthday and according to his promoter Eddie Hearn, the challenger has been boosted by the reception he has received.
“It's heart-warming to see Audley finally getting some support from the British public, after all he is just a guy from the street chasing a dream,” said Hearn.
“He has shown unbreakable British spirit in never giving up and we all know the public love an underdog. Haye has said some pretty disgusting things over the recent weeks and unlike Audley, he seems to be in the game for all the wrong reasons.”
