Petition to give Muhammad Ali an honorary knighthood reaches Downing Street

David Haye's petition to award Muhammad Ali an honorary knighthood could soon be debated in Parliament, the heavyweight boxer has confirmed.

Nearly 20,000 people have signed the petition on change.org, while fellow heavyweight Anthony Joshua has given his backing to the cause.

“What makes Ali such a role model is the battles he had to go through," Joshua said.

"He was fighting through the civil rights movement. He was more than just a boxer, he was a leader for many people.”

Haye, whose next fight will take place at London's O2 on May 21, provided a video update for those who have already signed the petition.

"For me this is very important. I know he's coming to the UK very soon and it could be his last trip to the UK," Haye said.

"We've already got 20,000 people so far, which is amazing, but I really want to push on more and really rally the troops."

He confirmed Downing Street had come back to him to confirm the petition was under consideration.

Sign the petition to get Muhammad Ali an Honorary Knighthood by visiting change.org. #HayeDay returns to The O2 on May 21, tickets are available on general sale now via AXS.com.