Kell Brook return postponed as fight in tribute to Ricky Hatton receives new date

Kell Brook will no longer return to the boxing ring in February.

‘Special K’ had announced that he would make a special comeback to the ring against Eisa Al Dah on February 13 in Dubai.

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Boxing legend Hatton had been set to make his own return in an exhibition against Al Dah in December last year, but he sadly passed away aged 46, two months earlier.

Brook had then stepped in and confirmed he would instead face the ‘Arabian Warrior’, an appearance totally dedicated to the late fan favourite.

All proceeds were going towards the Ricky Hatton Foundation, a charitable organisation providing support to those fighting their own battles with mental illness.

It has now been confirmed by organisers that the event will now be postponed for now and has already been rescheduled.

Brook will now take to the ring with Al Dah on April 11, with the event to follow the exact same plan.

Organisers released a statement, which read: “Please be advised that Destiny in the Desert has been rescheduled. The event will now take place on 11 April.

“We appreciate your patience and understanding, and will continue to share any further updates through our official channels.”

A title belt will still be put on the line by the WBC, the Union title, despite the delay.

An undercard is expected to be announced featuring some United Arab Emirates residents and boxers from Manchester, Hatton’s home.

Brook’s intention to honour Hatton

The boxing world was sent into a state of mourning when Hatton was found dead at his home in Greater Manchester.

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Thousands of the sport’s leading faces paid tribute to the Mancunian icon, who in his prime years travelled to US shores to take on superstar Manny Pacquiao and Floyd Mayweather.

And Brook confirmed he would step in to the event in place of Hatton.

It was a fantastic gesture, and one which will draw significant eyes and donations, given his star power in the sport.

When did Brook last fight?

The Sheffield sensation hasn’t fought since famously settling his bitter rivalry with Amir Khan in February 2022.

Brook brutally stopped his long-term foe in an epic battle in Manchester, and retired from the sport on a real high.

He regularly teased returns to the ring, and was heavily linked with a clash against Conor Benn in the immediate aftermath of the contest.

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But he has resisted offers, and has been focused on his family life with partner Ebanie Bridges and their child Ezerra Ray Brook.