Last Updated: Wed, 12 Mar 2008 14:34
Ricky Hatton has announced he will return to the ring in his home town Manchester when he fights Mexico's Juan Lazcano on May 24.
The defence of his IBO light-welterweight title marks a drop back to his preferred weight for the 29-year old and the bout is scheduled to be held at the City of Manchester Stadium.
The final contract to fight Lazcano is unsigned but the major points regarding the promoters and venue have been agreed.
Hatton, who will be looking to bounce back following his defeat by Floyd Mayweather, said returning to Manchester and fighting at the home of Manchester City FC, was something he had long wished for.
"It is a homecoming fight and it's an absolute dream come true to be fighting back in Manchester," said Hatton. "I'm down the home straight of my career with everything I have done so far.
"But I'm back down to my normal weight and it's my aim to come back and slam the door on everyone who thinks I'm finished.
"You prove yourself to be great by coming back from obstacles which are put in front of you."
His opponent, Lazcano, the 32-year-old former WBF lightweight title holder, has a record of 37 wins from his 42 bouts.