Boxing: Haye and Maccarinelli ready to fly flag in eagerly awaited clash

David Haye against Enzo Maccarinelli is finally on. The fight will take place on 8 March and is the biggest all-British contest since the quartet of great meetings involving Nigel Benn, Chris Eubank, Steve Collins and Michael Watson which started in 1990.

The Haye-Maccarinelli fight was first made last January, but it was no surprise when it collapsed in acrimony. This time the promoter, Frank Warren, has secured both signatures and guaranteed a date before speaking about the fight. "This is the biggest British fight for many, many years," insisted Warren. "Two world champions two known and respected punchers and one ring with just one winner. It's as good as it gets."

Haye, 27, is the World Boxing Association and World Boxing Council cruiserweight champion, having won both titles in Paris six weeks ago when he survived a knockdown to knock out the local idol Jean Mark Mormeck in round seven.

Maccarinelli, 27, has defended his World Boxing Organisation cruiserweight title four times and is also promoted by Warren.

The pair are known for their punching power and between them have stopped or knocked out a total of 40 men. They have also each suffered knockdowns and then recovered to win and that vulnerability is what makes this fight extra special.