Promoter Eddie Hearn has confirmed that Kell Brook will return to the ring in March to make the first defence of his IBF welterweight crown.

Brook was expected to defend his title in December last year but was hospitalised after being stabbed while on holiday in Tenerife.

The Sheffield fighter shocked the world when he upset American Shawn Porter on points in California last August as he stepped up in class to secure his first world title.

Brook’s first defence will be at the Motorpoint Arena in Sheffield, with his opponent to be named on January 19.

The 28-year-old is also hoping for a fight with fellow welterweight and two-time world champion Amir Khan later in the year.

Khan is still holding out for a fight against Floyd Mayweather or Manny Pacquiao but Hearn is confident Brook will get the fight he wants before clearing up the division in the future.

Speaking about Brook’s return, Hearn said: “I can’t wait to finally see Kell make that walk at the Motorpoint Arena as world champion.

“Last year was a year of incredible highs and lows and the bravery he has shown to come back from that life-threatening injury has been quite remarkable.

“People doubted Kell before he ripped the world title from Porter in America. The fact is that Kell is a special fighter and I believe he will go on to unify the 147lbs division.

“It will be an emotional night for Kell and another big statement will be made.”