David Haye and Tony Bellew had to be separated by security guards during a tense press conference in Liverpool on Thursday evening. The pair exchanged insults for several minutes before Haye declared he was 'bored' and turned away.
Bellew, interpreting Haye's withdrawal as a sign of victory, raised his fist to the delight of his supporters. The hostility escalated when Haye urged Bellew's fans to bet on their man, challenging them to 'empty your little bank accounts'.
Bellew retorted with a profanity-laced outburst, prompting Haye to shout back: 'You're from nowhere and you'll go back to nowhere a broken man on March 4. I'll smash your f***g head in.' Haye then made an obscene gesture to the crowd.
Bellew remained defiant, vowing to create his legacy by defeating 'Sideshow Bob' and predicting Haye's stamina would falter. 'When the gas runs out, this big fat Scouser is going to steam right through him,' he said.
The press conference, originally scheduled for 5:30pm, was delayed by 45 minutes as Haye arrived late from London. Security maintained a close watch on both fighters throughout the event.
Haye and Bellew will meet in the ring at The O2 on March 4, live on Sky Sports Box Office.
