Hatton sets Smith date

Magee gave Hatton a tough battle last time out

Unbeaten Ricky Hatton will make his return to the ring on 28 September at Manchester's MEN Arena against Londoner Stephen Smith.

Smith is the current IBC light-welterweight champion and has won 31 of his 32 fights, with his only defeat coming against Bobby Vanzie in February 2001.

Hatton said of his opponent: "He's got a very good record and he's a very skilful and talented boxer.

"It's a potentially tough fight for me but it's one I expect to win"

I was complacent (against Magee) but those mistakes will be put right against Smith

Ricky Hatton

The 33-year-old Smith is not expected to provide as formidable a test as Hatton's last opponent, Eamonn Magee.

The 23-year-old light-welterweight beat Irishman Magee in June but suffered his most difficult moments as a professional.

Hatton outpoints Magee

He suffered the first knockdown of his career in that fight but rallied well to win a unanimous points decision.

Hatton claims the near-upset was a result of complacency rather than ability.

He said: "I was probably a bit too confident. I underestimated him. I'd seen him fight and I didn't rate him.

"It's a bit embarrassing because he's not in my class and I had to take a few shots from him.

"I was complacent but those mistakes will be put right against Smith."

Hatton's long wait for Tszyu

Still in Hatton's sights are the world title belts owned by Australian Kostya Tszyu, who he hopes to tackle in the next year.

"I won't be at my peak for another couple of years," continued the Mancunian.

"In 12 months I'll fight for the undisputed title and I'm pretty sure that I'll win it."

Chief support on the bill in Manchester will be a rematch between Anthony Farnell and London-based South African Rueben Groenwald.

Farnell lost the first bout, in part because of his inability to keep punches above the belt, but he hopes to extract some revenge this time.