No Joke: Ex-Heavyweight Champ David Haye Accused Of Comedy Gig Assault

Haye leaving Westminster Magistrates' Court

Former world heavyweight boxing champ David Haye appeared in court yesterday, accused of throttling a fellow audience member at a comedy show while shouting: “One more word and I’m going to kill you.”

Haye, former holder of the WBA belt, is said to have leapt over a seat to confront the man at comic Paul Chowdhry’s stand-up gig at the Hammersmith Eventim Apollo, last year.

The 41 year-old appeared in custody at Westminster Magistrates Court, having been arrested on a warrant at Heathrow Airport the day before.

He pleaded not guilty to one count of assaulting Nickesh Jhala on October 30, 2021 and was bailed to return to the same court for trial on September 9.

According to the Crown Prosecution Service summary the six foot three ex-boxer - nicknamed ‘The Hayemaker’ - attended the 8pm show and was seated near the complainant.

It is alleged he jumped over the back of a seat and into the aisle to confront Mr Chowdhry, who says Haye placed his hand on his throat and issued the threat.

A first instance warrant for the arrest of Haye was issued because the cut-off date for charging him with offence of common assault was approaching.

Before fighting at heavyweight Haye was dominant at the lighter Cruiserweight, becoming unified world champion in 2008.

He was ranked the number one Cruiserweight in the world between 2005 and 2007.