Belfast’s Eamonn Magee will get a shot at the WBU light-welterweight belt when he tackles popular champion Ricky Hatton, it was confirmed today.
One of the most eagerly anticipated domestic match-ups of recent years between two of the most exciting prospects in British boxing will take place at the MEN Arena in Manchester on June 1st.
Hatton will be making the sixth defence of his title against the Belfast southpaw, in a contest that many feared may never happen.
And the Mancunian will be cheered on by the majority of the anticipated 20,000-strong crowd, although Magee will no doubt be buoyed by a substantial travelling support.
Promoter Frank Warren said: "I'd compare this fight to the likes of Benn versus Eubank. It has the potential to be a classic.
"Everyone has put a lot of effort into making this fight happen and it's great because it's finally on.
"Magee is a counter puncher, he's a good puncher and the styles should make it a great fight as Ricky loves to come forward.
"I'll be amazed if the MEN Arena doesn't sell out for this one."