Haye has been inactive since July 2012. Photo: Scott Heavey/ Getty

Former WBA heavyweight titleholder David Haye is planning to end the unbeaten professional run of fellow Londoner Anthony Joshua, according to British tabloid newspaper The Sun.

The 34-year-old has been inactive since he knocked out domestic rival Dereck Chisora, three years ago, and has been beset by injuries ever since. Two bouts with Tyson Fury fell through in 2013 and Haye, who also won titles at cruiserweight, underwent complex shoulder surgery.

A comeback has always been on the cards however and the rise of a new British force in Joshua, mixed with the financial gain which could be attached with facing the colossal Olympic gold medalist, may finally motivate his long awaited ring return.

Haye said, “I’ve got to get back in the ring and he’s got to keep winning. We’re both from London, he’s from north and I’m from south, and it would be a massive, massive affair.”

Joshua is 13-0 (13 knockouts) and is coming off his most impressive victory to date, a second round stoppage of former world title challenger Kevin Johnson who had never been stopped in a twelve year professional career.

“Anthony Joshua’s progress has been fantastic,” said Haye who is 26-2 (24 knockouts). “Eddie Hearn and Matchroom Promotions have done a fantastic job of maneuvering his career in just the right way.”

Tom Gray is a member of the British Boxing Writers’ Association and has contributed to various publications. Follow him on Twitter: @Tom_Gray_Boxing