By Miguel Assuncao
Former Commonwealth title challenger Lee Markham (15-3-1, 7KOs) will battle Joe Mullender (9-1-0, 4KOs) for the English middleweight belt in the chief support to David Haye's upcoming fight on May 21.
Essex's ‘Banjo’ Markham followed up a narrow points defeat to Luke Blackledge with a routine six round win over Dan Blackwell on February 3 and will now fight Mullender, 29, for the national title in an Essex derby at the 02 Arena, London.
Goodwin Promotions will once again provide the undercard action as Haye looks to build on his emphatic knockout win over Mark de Mori in January, with Liverpool's Tony Dodson likely to feature.
A 16,000 strong crowd flocked to see the ‘Hayemaker’s’ return to the ring after three-and-a-half years and the former two-weight world champion is keen to capitalise on his momentum.
‘The reaction to the first Haye Day was incredible with a sell-out crowd, headline music act, A-List guests and record breaking TV viewing figures.
‘May’s event will be even bigger and better. I’m intent on securing an undercard with event more quality match-ups and what better way to start than with an English title fight featuring two fantastic prospects,’ said Haye.
Shannon Briggs recently called out Haye as the Londoner looks to secure his opponent for the May date.
