David Haye wants Tyson Fury to return to heavyweight boxing to restore an element of fun

David Haye has said heavyweight boxing is "more fun" with Tyson Fury involved, and hopes the former world champion returns to the sport.

Fury has stepped away from the ring after admitting to drug abuse and mental health issues, and relinquished his world titles late last year in an effort to focus on his recovery. The 28-year-old has not fought since beating Wladimir Klitschko in November 2015 to claim the WBA (Super), IBF, WBO, IBO, The Ring, and lineal heavyweight titles. But there has been talk of a return before the end of this year and Haye, who twice pulled out of potential PPV meetings with the Wythenshawe native, has said he would welcome a fit and healthy Fury back to top-level boxing.

Fury's rematch with Klitschko was postponed for medical reasons (Photo by Alex Livesey/Getty Images)

“I always want what’s best for boxing and he’s a big character," Haye told World Boxing News.

"He’s always screaming and shouting all kinds of nonsense, so it’s better if he’s in boxing. “I hope he does (make a return). I think heavyweight boxing is more fun with him in it than not in it. "I’m not sure in reality if he’s even licensed to fight. If he does get a license, [a Haye-Fury fight] would be something to talk about, for sure."

Haye is currently preparing for his meeting with Tony Bellew

Haye's next bout comes against Tony Bellew on March 4, with the pair facing off at the O2 Arena in London. The Bermondsey fighter is looking to go three-for-three after ending his three-and-a-half year hiatus from the sport, and victory over his Liverpudlian opponent could set up a PPV match-up with IBF World Heavyweight Champion Anthony Joshua later in the year. Catch up with this week's episode of 888sport Football Friday Live