Ricky Hatton's Comeback Fight Is Set – Here's What We Know About His Opponent
At 46 years old, it's been over a decade since Ricky Hatton last fought professionally. That long absence made it easy to assume the former world champion had hung up the gloves for good. His last real run ended in heartbreak, and since then, the boxing world has only seen glimpses—an exhibition here, a rumor there. But now, the noise is growing louder, and something real is on the calendar.
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The announcement came during a boxing event in Dubai, with Hatton confirming his return via livestream. The news was first reported by the BBC, which also highlighted the uncertainty surrounding the bout's sanctioning and format.
Ricky HattonGetty Images
He was originally slated to appear in person but suffered a minor eye injury caused by his sunglasses—an accident he described as a 'freakish thing.' Despite the setback, the message was clear: Hatton will step back into the ring on December 2 for a middleweight bout in Dubai.
The opponent? Eisa Al Dah, a longtime figure in UAE boxing circles who is also 46 years old, was introduced during the same event. Al Dah holds a professional record of 8 wins and 3 losses, with 4 of those victories coming by way of knockout. His most recent fight was a TKO loss to Pedro Alejandro Delgado in Mexico City back in July 2021. Prior to that, he fought sparingly, with notable wins over opponents like Miguel Angel Munguia and Ignasi Caballero in Dubai.
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His bouts have often taken place in the UAE, and while he's not a globally recognized name, he's been an active part of the region's boxing promotion scene. The matchup brings regional intrigue and promotional value. The bout will be contested at middleweight, and while it's being billed as a professional fight, full sanctioning details remain unclear. Think Tyson vs. Paul—shorter rounds, reduced risk, and spectacle over stakes. It's not just a fight—it's a curiosity.
With world titles at two weight classes and a career built on grit and heart, this return revives both nostalgia and curiosity. Hatton's style was never cautious, never polished—just pure chaos and courage. Whether this is a final curtain call or something more, fans now have a date: December 2. The countdown begins.
Related: UFC Faces Pressure as Ilia Topuria's Next Opponent Narrowed to 3 Possibilities
Related: 'Make Us a Promise' – UFC's Quiet Request to Ilia Topuria Revealed
This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Jul 7, 2025, where it first appeared.
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