Bellew vs Haye II: John Ryder-Jamie Cox fight added to card

John Ryder will face Jamie Cox in a super middleweight clash on May 5, with the fight set for 12 rounds on the Bellew-Haye II undercard at O2 Arena in London.

Ryder (25-4, 13 KO) and Cox (24-1, 13 KO) were both last in action on the same card on October 14. Cox lost in that night’s main event to George Groves in World Boxing Super Series opening round action, while Ryder knocked off Patrick Nielsen via fifth round knockout.

“I think our styles are geared up for a good fight, it’ll be a real treat for the fans on what’s shaping up to be a quality night of boxing,” Ryder said. “For the winner it opens a lot of doors, the loser it could be curtains potentially. It’s a must win fight for the both of us.”

Cox echoed those sentiments.

“He’s ranked across a couple of the governing bodies and it’s my goal to become a world champion,” he said. “Beating John will open more doors, especially with the tournament finishing soon. It should free up some of the fighters. This fight has come at the perfect time.

“It’s going to be a tough task, he likes to come forward and have a go and I’m always up for the fight. There will be some big shots landed, it’s a great fight for the fans. I’m looking forward to breaking it down the gym with the team and the build up to the fight itself.”