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Tony Bellew willing to face Andre Ward if pound-for-pound king moves up in weight

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Tony Bellew reveals his latest thoughts about rematch with David Haye

Tony Bellew says he would have "no problem" with accepting a fight against Andre Ward if the pound-for-pound king steps up in weight.

The American defended his world light-heavyweight titles by stopping Sergey Kovalev last Saturday and hinted he could climb up the divisions towards a heavyweight clash with Anthony Joshua.

Ward wants AJ bout?
Ward wants AJ bout?

Andre Ward hints at bout against Anthony Joshua at heavyweight

But Bellew has also put himself forward as a potential opponent for Ward, who is widely considered as the sport's No 1 fighter after extending his unbeaten record to 32 victories.

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Highlights as Andre Ward halted Sergey Kovalev in the eighth round of their rematch in Las Vegas

"He's a great guy. If he really wants to do it - I'm game, it's as simple as that," Bellew exclusively told Sky Sports.

"Like I say, I do respect him, he's an amazing fighter. He's very good at what he does.

"But I'm a full blown, big cruiserweight. I'm not a light-heavyweight who is struggling anymore and I've just shown that I can deal with one of the most powerful heavyweights in the world.

"I would have no problem dealing with Andre Ward."

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 David Haye and Tony Bellew
Image: Bellew remains interested in a rematch with British rival David Haye

A rematch with David Haye remains a more likely option for Bellew, but he wants to have more influence in negotiations for a second fight.

Bellew said: "I am willing to do it, not a problem, as long as I have some say this time, because last time I had zero say and I was quite open about saying that in the build-up.

Bellew warns Haye over rematch
Bellew warns Haye over rematch

Bellew tells David Haye to accept his terms or risk missing out on rematch

"The only thing I could do was choose my gloves and choose my shorts. But this time I want a little bit more say in how things are going to go and how things are ran, and in the percentages as well. I had zero say last time."