David Haye is expecting a real scrap when he defends his WBA heavyweight title for the first time against John Ruiz on April 3.

Haye fulfilled a lifelong ambition when he claimed the heavyweight title by beating giant Russian Nikolay Valuev in November.

The Briton is desperate not to relinquish the crown at the first time of asking against 38-year-old Ruiz, who is a two-time former champion himself.

While Ruiz's best years may be behind him, Haye's camp are wary of the American's threat, with trainer Adam Booth describing the fight as the toughest of his protege's career so far.

Haye himself is unwilling to underestimate Ruiz and while he described him as an "ugly" fighter, that is more to do with the unsettling and hard-nosed approach the former cruiserweight expects his rival to employ in Manchester.

"I know what Ruiz is all about. He's a lot tougher and a lot more durable than what a lot of people give him credit for," Haye said.

"He's awkward, he rushes his punches, smothers his work, he comes in heavy with his head. He's an ugly type of fighter that drags people down.

"I can't allow that to happen. I can't allow him to upset my rhythm.

"I've got to go out there in the first round and apply my skill set and do what I do best."

Ruiz's trainer Miguel Diaz has spoken about his fighter's need to attack Haye early which could make for some early fireworks at the MEN Arena.

Haye, 29, is confident, however, that he will be able to weather the storm and then overpower his rival with his greater punching power.

"I don't think he can live with me when it comes down to really holding your feet and throwing bombs," he added.

"I think I punch harder and faster than him and I think I'll be landing before he lands."