James Robson, Manchester Evening News, October 29, 2009
RICKY Hatton has been told to quit boxing and become a cage fighter in the UFC!
And one of the legends of the Ultimate Fighting Championship has even offered to train the Hitman to make him a star in the brutal mixed martial arts phenomenon.
Five-time world UFC champion Randy Couture believes Hatton, who hasn't boxed since losing to Manny Pacquiao in May, would be a sensation in the cage.
"I am a big fan of Ricky Hatton," said Couture. "He is a fantastic fighter. I could get him up to speed on the ground wrestling part of it, while he could take advantage of his boxing talent.
"He could make a big difference in the lighter categories."
Major figures from around the boxing world have urged Hatton to retire from boxing for his own safety - but he won't be rushed into a decision.
And although the 31-year-old is currently concentrating on his promoting career, he is known to be a big fan of UFC and suggested earlier this year that it could one day over take boxing in popularity.
"It is all action, proper fighting," he said. "They are going the right away about it to get people interested.
"There is a concern in boxing that UFC is taking its place. People seem to get more value for money.
"UFC would be right up my street, I used to kick box so maybe I would be all right."
Couture, who fights at what is set to be a sold-out MEN Arena on November 14, is convinced the UFC, which has a huge worldwide following, would be an ideal option for Hatton should he decide to continue his fight career.
He said: "A lot of boxers have trouble putting themselves in the situation where they are going to get choked and taken down. But if he can learn the ways of UFC then he could go a long way.
"He is a tremendous fighter and has a lot of heart. There is no doubt he could make a tremendous impact with his heart and determination in the ring."
COUTURE will be signing copies of his autobiography 'Becoming The Natural' on Sunday November 15 from 11am to 1pm at Hard Rock Cafe , Exchange Square, Manchester. For tickets call 0845 125 9627 or visit: www.fightersinc.net/experience.htm
Do you think Hatton would be able to succeed in UFC? Have your say.
(This article is originally posted at manchestereveningnews.co.uk)
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