David Haye vs. Mark De Mori Fight Announced, Brit Targets Wladimir Klitschko

Former world heavyweight champion David Haye has confirmed he is to return to boxing in 2016 and will fight Australia’s Mark De Mori at the O2 Arena, London, on Jan. 16.

Haye announced on his official Twitter account that he’ll be back in the ring in the new year, seeking to improve on a career record of 26 wins and two defeats:

The 35-year-old has not been in action since fighting Dereck Chisora in 2012. Haye previously held the WBA heavyweight title after beating Nikolai Valuev in 2009, but he lost the strap to Ukrainian fighting icon Wladimir Klitschko in 2011.

Speaking after the announcement of this bout, Haye admitted he sought advice from fans on who he should fight in his return to action and that he already has his sights set on a potential rematch with Klitschko, per Simon Osborn of Metro:

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I asked my fans on Twitter who they would like me to fight and De Mori called me out. He has an impressive record. There are no names on it that make me really worried but can talk and it should be a fun fight for the fans.

I could have boxed someone easier but I’m not interested in that. I’d like a rematch with Wladimir Klitschko down the line but I’ll fight anyone who stands in my way to being the champion.

"

AFP/Getty Images

De Mori has won 30, lost one and drawn two of his 33 professional bouts. The Australian, according to Aaron Flanagan of the Daily Mirror, taught himself to box by watching YouTube videos. The 33-year-old is a fighter who encourages pressure by keeping his guard down but can back opponents up with power and unexpected speed.

Haye infamously blamed a broken toe for his loss to Klitschko four years ago, prompting much ridicule from a lot of boxing fans. The Ukrainian is set to face Tyson Fury in Dusseldorf, Germany, on Saturday, seeking to extend his unbeaten run in heavyweight bouts, which extends over 11 years.

Heavyweight legend George Foreman thinks that Haye has a good chance of beating Klitschko should the pair meet once again:

There’s no denying Haye's dynamic style, sharp footwork and fast hands brought something different to the heavyweight division and it'll be intriguing to see just how strong he is on return. But there’s a long way to go before he earns the right to face the best guys in the weight class once again.