David Haye to return to the ring against Mark De Mori on January 16
British heavyweight David Haye (26-2, 24 KOs) will return to the ring against Australia’s Mark De Mori (30-1-2, 26 KOs) on January 16 at The O2 in London.
The 35-year-old has not fought since he stopped Dereck Chisora in the 5th round in July 2012.
Haye, a former world champion at both cruiserweight and heavyweight, will be without long-time trainer Adam Booth, and is now trained by Shane McGuigan, the son of former world featherweight champion Barry.
"I'm so happy to be able to step back through the ropes and back into the ring, where I do my best work," said Haye.
"It's been a long three-and-a-half years out, with many ups and downs, but 'The Hayemaker' is finally back, and ready to do what I do best.
"I've a new team, new look and new inspiration to achieve my goals. I've always set the bar high in my career, and I will continue to do so. Please sit back and get ready for another fun-fuelled heavyweight campaign to the very top."
Croatia-based De Mori, 33, who is undefeated since September 2004, said: "I've finally got my shot. I've been put on the sidelines for many years, frustratingly looking in, and not been given the opportunity to fulfil my ambition to fight the big names and to become the heavyweight champion of the world.
"Well that has now changed and January 16 at The O2 will be my time to shine, when I knock David Haye back into retirement."
Haye won the WBA heavyweight title in November 2009 when he outpointed Nikolai Valuev, and defended it against John Ruiz and Audley Harrison before losing on points in a world title unification clash with Wladimir Klitschko in July 2011.