Former professional boxer and now TV analyst for the sport Carl Froch believes that David Haye's body is “falling apart” ahead of his bout against Tony Bellew.

The two heavyweights are set to face-off in a rematch at the O2 Arena on May 5.

'The Cobra', as Froch was once popularly known, believes that Haye will struggle to keep up with Tony Bellew for all 12 rounds, as he shared with The Sun: “If Haye’s body holds up and he can get through 12 rounds, it’s going to be a tough fight for both of them.

“But, you’ve got to be unsure if he can, considering all of the surgeries and injuries he has had. You don’t know if he’s got the physical capabilities to go the 12 rounds.”

The Hayemaker was bested by Bellew in their first bout in March of last year. The fight was off to a good start until Haye tore his Achilles tendon in the sixth round, at which point, Bellew took over.

Haye decided to fight on despite the injury and was largely praised by the boxing world after the fight for his bravery.

However, the injury inevitably took its toll and the fighter from Bermondsey was knocked down in the 11th round. The former champion was able to make it to his feet, but his corner rightfully decided to throw in the towel. The South Londoner has since had his Achilles operated on.

The rematch was originally set to take place in December of last year, however, a training injury to Haye’s biceps meant the fight was postponed. Indeed, the former two-division champion has had a long list of fight postponements and cancellations due to injury.

Froch questions whether Haye’s body can take any more punishment and had some sage advice for the ageing fighter.

“The problem Haye has got is that his body is falling apart. I retired at 36 — I wasn’t breaking down like him but I could feel it.

“You just can’t get into the physical shape you need to be in, in your late 30s. In your mindset you still want it and you’ve still got it.

“Haye still believes but unfortunately the mind can be willing and the body isn’t physically capable, and I think that’s the position Haye is in.”

For his part, the Hayemaker believes his injuries woes are behind him and is all set to get his revenge.

“Everything is fine and I just need to keep it this way. It’s like a car having a major service — new tyres, new clutch, oil change, everything has been revamped."

The boxing world will get a chance to see if he's right on May 5th.