Former world heavyweight champion David Haye (right) has announced he is to return to the ring in January with a bout against Australian Mark de Mori at the O2 Arena in London.

The 35-year-old Briton held a press conference at the venue yesterday to deliver the news of what is set to be his first fight since he beat compatriot Dereck Chisora in July 2012.

In 2013 Haye withdrew from proposed clashes against Manuel Charr and Tyson Fury due to injuries, with surgeons advising him following a shoulder operation on the latter occasion to seriously consider retiring.

But he refused to give up on a comeback which has now been scheduled for January 16 and will see him take on a man two years his junior in De Mori.

“I’m so happy to be able to step back through the ropes and back into the ring, where I do my best work,” Haye said.

“I’ve always set the bar high in my career, and I will continue to do so. Please sit back and get ready for another fun-fuelled campaign to the very top.

“It’s been a long three-and-a-half years out, with many ups and downs, but The Hayemaker is finally back and ready to do what I do best.

“I’ve a new team, new look and new inspiration to achieve my goals.”

It recently emerged Haye was linking up with trainer Shane McGuigan – son of Barry McGuigan – who also works with super-bantamweight world champion Carl Frampton.