Kell Brook's planned comeback fight in tribute to the late Ricky Hatton has been postponed due to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. The British boxing legend was scheduled to face Eisa Al Dah on April 11 in Dubai, but organisers have been forced to move the event to Manchester, likely later this summer.
The decision was prompted by travel restrictions in the United Arab Emirates following recent escalations between the US, Israel, and Iran. Emirates cancelled some flights after a drone strike near Dubai's airport caused a fire. Agenda Dubai, the event promoter, confirmed the relocation to Hatton's hometown.
Agenda Dubai founder Martin P. Gravestock said: 'Dubai remains an outstanding international host city. However, if the fighters cannot come to Dubai, then we’ll bring the fight to Manchester – to Ricky’s home.' The card was originally headlined by Hatton and Al Dah, but was scrapped after Hatton's death in September.
Brook, 39, stepped in to face Al Dah in memory of Hatton. The Sheffield native has not fought since his victory over Amir Khan in February 2022. All proceeds will go to the Ricky Hatton Foundation, which supports those battling mental illness.
Al Dah expressed his commitment to honouring Hatton's legacy, saying: 'Now I have the opportunity to do that in his hometown – his own backyard.' The card also features Hatton's son Campbell, who is coming out of retirement for an exhibition bout, as well as Hatton's nephew Jack and niece Lola.
