Bellew vs Haye II: John Ryder against Jamie Cox added to O2 bill

John Ryder and Jamie Cox will collide in a must-win super-middleweight battle on the undercard for Tony Bellew's rematch with David Haye.

The British rivals can propel themselves into contention for a major title fight on the same bill as Bellew's second heavyweight clash with Haye at The O2 on May 5, live on Sky Sports Box Office.

Ryder returns to action following his stoppage of Patrick Nielsen in October, a win that saw 'The Gorilla' take the Dane's No 4 ranking in the WBA, but Cox also wants to fight at the top level against after being stopped by George Groves in his WBA 'super' title fight on the same night.

"It's been a long time coming following my career-best win, so I'm happy to get back in there in another big fight in my hometown," said Ryder.

"There was talk of other fights that we were looking at, but they didn't come off - that's boxing. It was about picking the right fight, rather than just going in there against anyone. Jamie has a good record and to beat him would hold me in good stead.

I think our styles are geared up for a good fight. It'll be a real treat for the fans on what's shaping up to be a quality night of boxing

"A lot of people were writing me off before the Nielsen fight. I went in there and beat the man that was held in high regard and I beat him in good fashion. It was the best win of my career so far. The pressure was off. I was an away fighter, I just went in there and enjoyed it, which was telling on the night. It was a great victory.

"Jamie had some success in the early rounds against George. He made it the fight it was, but we all know how good Groves is. It only takes one shot. Just look at both my fight and his fight on the same card. Luckily my punch went to my advantage and he was on the receiving end of a peach.

"I think our styles are geared up for a good fight, it'll be a real treat for the fans on what's shaping up to be a quality night of boxing."

Cox insists he learned from his first professional defeat to Groves and intends to take Ryder's lofty position in the rankings.

"Facing Groves was a great experience, I know where I went wrong and I'm ready to prove where I believe I should be," said Cox.

I'm looking forward to mixing it with him. Beating him will put me in a better position and nearer to a world title shot.

"I'm expecting the best John Ryder. I'm looking forward to mixing it with him. Beating him will put me in a better position and nearer to a world title shot.

"He's ranked across a couple of the governing bodies and it's my goal to become a world champion. Beating John will open more doors, especially with the tournament finishing soon. It should free up some of the fighters. This fight has come at the perfect time.

"It's going to be a tough task, he likes to come forward and have a go, and I'm always up for the fight. There will be some big shots landed, it's a great fight for the fans."

Tony Bellew vs David Haye II is on May 5, live on Sky Sports Box Office.