David Haye vs Mark De Mori to be shown on freeview comedy channel Dave

The bout takes place on Saturday 16 January

The promotional poster for David Haye's upcoming fight (Dave)

The 'home of witty banter' will soon become the 'home of witty batter'.

10 days before it takes place at the o2 Arena, David Haye's comeback fight against Mark De Mori has secured a television deal, on free-to-air Dave, the channel synoymous with showing comedy repeats.

Former cruiserweight and heavyweight champion Haye, 35, will return to the ring after a three-and-a-half-year absence when he faces the Australian.

The fight, shown in a two-hour special between 9pm and 11pm featuring highlights from the undercard in London, will displace episodes of "Would I Lie To You?" and "Have I Got A Bit More News For You", which are currently on the Dave schedule for the evening.

Speaking about his return on Dave, Haye said: “I’m so happy to be stepping back into the ring with my hometown crowd behind me. It’s been a long time out, with many ups and downs, but ‘The Hayemaker’ is finally back, and ready to do what I do best.

“I’m a young 35, in boxing terms, and still have my explosive speed and punching power. I’m looking forward to putting on a great show for the fans on ‘Haye Day’ at The O2 on January 16 and I’m delighted that my first fight in three and a half years is going to be available free to air on Dave giving as many people as possible the chance to watch my comeback.

“I was determined to make this comeback fight free to everybody and fans should sit back and get ready for another fun-fuelled ride as I look to regain the heavyweight championship of the world.”