Campbell Hatton to return to boxing ring in Dubai
Campbell Hatton has confirmed he will step back into the boxing ring on April 11 in Dubai, ending his retirement to honour the memory of his father, reports BritPanorama.
The 25-year-old lightweight announced his participation in the event, titled “Destiny in the Desert,” which was originally scheduled to feature his father’s own comeback bout.
Campbell wrote on Instagram: “Looking forward to getting back in the ring in memory of my dad out in Dubai.”
The Manchester boxing legend had been due to headline the show himself before he was found dead at his Hyde home on the morning he was set to fly to the Gulf state for promotional duties.
Campbell will be joined by his cousins, Jack and Lola, the teenage children of Ricky’s brother Matthew, who are both set to appear on the undercard.
Jack, a 17-year-old featherweight who has claimed two national amateur titles, expressed his enthusiasm for the opportunity. He wrote on social media: “It will be a great experience, ready to show them what I can do on a big night.”
His younger sister Lola, a 14-year-old bantamweight who trains alongside her brother at their father’s Manchester gym, posted that she was “buzzing” to represent “team Manchester and the Ricky Hatton Foundation.”
Former welterweight world champion Kell Brook, 39, has taken over the headline slot and will face Eisa Al Dah, the opponent originally scheduled to meet Ricky.
Campbell’s return marks a significant reversal after he stepped away from professional boxing in July 2024.
The decision came following consecutive defeats to James Flint, losing on points in both their March and October encounters that year.
Proceeds from the Dubai event will benefit the newly established Ricky Hatton Foundation, a charity dedicated to supporting those struggling with mental health issues.
Campbell has spoken of his bewilderment at his father’s death, revealing that Ricky had appeared to be in a positive state of mind before the tragedy. Following the funeral at Manchester Cathedral, Campbell noted that Ricky had expressed excitement about various commitments.
The foundation aims to raise £100,000 to ensure “no one ever has to face those battles alone.” A full inquest into Ricky Hatton’s death is scheduled for March 20.
In the world of boxing, where the line between glory and tragedy can often blur, Campbell’s determination to follow in his father’s footsteps while advocating for mental health represents a poignant and vital narrative within the sport.
