David Haye has already lost: Tony Bellew has beaten him mentally, claims Sheffield sparring partner

The Eckington fighter was surprised at Bellew’s strength and speed when they traded blows last year in sparring.

“He’s the hard punching and quickest man I’ve been in with - a different level” Paul said.

“My money is on him again this weekend.”

The high-profile heavyweights re-match at the O2 Arena on Saturday night after another bad-humoured run-in.

“I think Tony’s got the edge on Haye mentally after the last bout” said Paul (Bellew beat an injured Haye in an 11th round stoppage, 14 months ago.)

“Also I think Haye will try to go for the big KO again like last time, but Bellew will out-box him and finish him in the later rounds.”

Paul won’t forget the experience of sparring with the Merseysider.

“He was just so fast, faster than I expected him to be for a big lad and he was over the 15 stone mark when we sparred.

“He is a lot bigger in person and you can feel that weight when he hits you, I think he suits heavyweight really well.”

Paul has been out of action since outpointing Sheffielder Carl Wild for the Central Area cruiserweight title last December.

“It seems a long time ago, and I’m not sure when I’ll be out again as I chipped a bone in my hand against Carl and been waiting for that to heal up.

“I’ve still been ticking over doing plenty of strength work and racking the miles up running. I have to be patient with it and let it heal” said Paul, 28.