By Gareth A Davies, Telegraph.co.uk
So, Ricky Hatton is finished in the ring as a fighter. He saw sense. A wise move. The final act which saw the curtain fall on the British folk hero’s last scene in the square circle came from the flashing fists of the Filipino phenomenon Manny Pacquiao – whose inexorable rise, in the ring and within politics – knows no bounds.
Hatton suffered depression after the loss to Pacquiao. After Floyd Mayweather Jnr had inflicted Hatton’s first career defeat and created the blueprint on December 8, 2008, the whirlwind from Mindanao ripped Hatton apart and bludgeoned him to flatness on the canvas. Two rounds of devastation. Part Pacquiao, part Hatton.
Hatton, a consummate professional with the media, the fans, with wedding parties…with a host of celebrities and sportsmen he had come to endear himself to, had come to the end of the road. After being released from hospital, having been brutally knocked out in the same ring in the MGM Grand Garden Arena where he had lost to Mayweather, Hatton had failed to show up, as he always did, to speak to the British media the next morning. It was a sign. The writing was on the wall.
Hatton always had a story to regale us with, a new angle, another twist. But on this morning, just silence. One or two writers, not those regularly on the boxing beat, were up in arms. Gareth Williams, CEO of Hatton Promotions, had turned up instead. He copped the flak.
No one knew then if it was all over. Though we all knew. Hatton looked finished. Depression came for him soon afterwards. And tears for a long time. He didn’t want to call time on the end of a drubbing. We all offered our sixpence worth, but to be frank, it was nothing to do with us. Only the fighter can decide. Ask Angelo Dundee. He told me recently he tried it many times with Muhammad Ali, but it went in one ear and out the other. Ali ducked and dived the issue with Dundee, every time it was broached.
At different times over the last two years, tales have emerged of Hatton, drunk, saying to those close to him that he could not face the long road back. Or that he was back in the ring; that he was no longer 190 lbs (fighting weight 140-147lbs); that he would fight Oscar de la Hoya, who was making a comeback; or Erik Morales…I believe that one or two of those came close, too. Thankfully, the demons have not left Hatton. He can walk away from the ring that has defined the 32-year-old as a man.
Two of his final four acts were against the two boxers who defined this age. We can all blame the brilliance and brutality of Manny Pacquiao for Hatton’s end, and Floyd Mayweather, perhaps, for loosening the strings on that, by being the first man to knock the Mancunian out. With the US $50 million fortune he amassed in the ring still intact, Hatton is still standing. He remains enormously popular.
The build up to his fights, visiting his old gym in the musty former Denton Hat Factory, the crushed coal voice of trainer Billy Graham and his iguana in the stifling back room behind the ring, will never be forgotten. The travelling fans, the march on America, the repetition of disbelief from the ‘liccle lad from the Manchester council estate’ seeing his name up in lights in Las Vegas, the fight capital of the world. The glory, and the pain.
There’s only one Ricky Hatton…
Source: blogs.telegraph.co.uk
Showing posts with label Ricky Hatton. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Ricky Hatton. Show all posts
Friday, 8 July 2011
Ricky Hatton announces retirement -- ESPN
By Dan Rafael, ESPN.com
Ricky Hatton
, who had not fought since suffering a brutal second-round knockout loss to Manny Pacquiao in May 2009, formally announced his retirement from boxing on Thursday.
Hatton, the former junior welterweight world champion and former welterweight titleholder, was one of the most popular fighters of his time. With his everyman attitude and fierce fighting style, Hatton, 32, became a beloved figure in England and something of a folk hero in his hometown of Manchester.
"After a lot of soul searching over the last couple of years I have finally decided to confirm I will never box again and there will be no coming back," Hatton said. "There have been so many times since the Manny Pacquiao fight when I have woken up and thought I would give it one more go, but it was not to be.
"There have been amazing highs, and although I always wanted to be a world champion, I went beyond my wildest dreams."
Known as "The Hitman," Hatton was 45-2 with 32 KOs during a career that began in 1997 but, following his loss to Pacquiao, fell apart due to his battles with alcohol and depression and admission to a rehab clinic after the News of the World published a video that showed him snorting cocaine.
Hatton said Thursday that he will now focus on his promotional company, Hatton Promotions, which has been promoting fight cards for about two years.
Hatton reached the pinnacle of boxing in June 2005 when he won the junior welterweight championship by making Kostya Tszyu -- who was inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame last month -- quit after 11 grueling rounds in what was Tszyu's final fight.
"Beating Kostya Tszyu was my greatest triumph, but there were plenty of other great nights and memories," Hatton said.
In his next fight, Hatton scored a highlight-reel knockout of Carlos Maussa in the ninth round to unify alphabet titles.
Then Hatton decided it was time to come to America, where he made his debut in Boston in May 2006 in the first fight of a multifight contract with promoter Artie Pelullo and HBO. He moved up in weight and scored a controversial decision against Luis Collazo to win a welterweight title.
Hatton never defended the welterweight belt, instead returning to junior welterweight to defend his lineal championship via lopsided decision against Juan Urango and by fourth-round knockout against former lightweight champion Jose Luis Castillo.
Hatton's passionate fans followed him to the United States by the thousands, but the scene was overwhelming in December 2007, when he moved back up to welterweight to challenge Floyd Mayweather Jr. at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas after his deal with Pelullo expired and he signed with Golden Boy.
Some 35,000 Brits flooded the city just to be part of the event, even though most did not have tickets to the fight. But that did not stop the Brits from spending a week partying, waiving British flags, chanting and singing "There's Only One Ricky Hatton!" (to the tune of "Winter Wonderland") before Mayweather knocked Hatton out in the 10th round.
Still the junior welterweight champion, Hatton returned home for his next fight in May 2008 and outpointed Juan Lazcano in front 58,500 at City of Manchester Stadium.
"Since I put on the gloves as a 10-year-old in Hattersley, boxing has been my life and still is," Hatton said. "My promotional company is going well and I am looking forward to taking one of my fighters on a similar road to me. People say no fighter will ever have the fan base I had, but one of my aims is to make sure one of my boxers gets a bigger one and achieves more than me."
Hatton returned to the MGM Grand to stop former titlist Paulie Malignaggi in the 11th round in November 2008 before being knocked cold in a scary scene by Pacquiao in the second round, also at the MGM Grand, six months later.
"Defeating Jose Luis Castillo, unifying the light welterweight title against Carlos Maussa, winning a world welterweight title when I fought Luis Collazo, beating Jon Thaxton to become British champion, fighting in front of almost 60,000 fans on Manchester City's ground -- it seems endless," Hatton said. "And when I look at my record the only men to beat me were Manny and Floyd -- still No. 1 and 2 in the pound-for-pound lists on the day I retire."
Hatton, who loved to tip pints of beer and would famously balloon in weight between fights to the point where he playfully referred to himself as "Ricky Fatton," had his share of problems and scandal after the loss to Pacquiao.
Hatton also had a falling out with original promoter Frank Warren, who had guided him to his first world title, as well as longtime trainer Billy Graham, who wound up suing him, claiming Hatton owed him money.
Besides his promotional company, Hatton, who has a son, Campbell, said he will also continue to focus on family life. His partner, Jennifer Dooley, is expecting their child later this year.
"Away from boxing, I have so much to look forward to," Hatton said. "My son, Campbell, is a boy any parent would be proud to call his lad and is growing up so fast I wonder where the years have gone. I am about to become a dad for the second time and that cannot happen quickly enough. Jennifer and I are so excited. She is my rock.
"There are so many people I want to thank for supporting me throughout my career and who made 'The Hitman's' journey possible. My family were there for me every step of the way. My mum and dad, brother Matthew, my amateur trainers Ted Peate and Paul Dunne, who taught me to box, my agent Paul Speak, my lawyer Gareth Williams, the British Boxing Board of Control and everybody at Hatton Promotions.
"Sky TV has been fantastic to me and I look forward to continuing my association with them as a promoter, the British media were fair and the local BBC and Granada followed me to Las Vegas. As big a thanks as any must go to the fans that would never stop singing and so often turn Las Vegas into a corner of England. Thank you all, but the fighting in the ring is over and I look forward to seeing old friends and meeting new friends on my journey as a promoter."
Dan Rafael is the boxing writer for ESPN.com. Follow him on Twitter @danrafaelespn.
Source: sports.espn.go.com
Ricky Hatton, who had not fought since suffering a brutal second-round knockout loss to Manny Pacquiao in May 2009, formally announced his retirement from boxing on Thursday.Hatton, the former junior welterweight world champion and former welterweight titleholder, was one of the most popular fighters of his time. With his everyman attitude and fierce fighting style, Hatton, 32, became a beloved figure in England and something of a folk hero in his hometown of Manchester.
"After a lot of soul searching over the last couple of years I have finally decided to confirm I will never box again and there will be no coming back," Hatton said. "There have been so many times since the Manny Pacquiao fight when I have woken up and thought I would give it one more go, but it was not to be.
"There have been amazing highs, and although I always wanted to be a world champion, I went beyond my wildest dreams."
Known as "The Hitman," Hatton was 45-2 with 32 KOs during a career that began in 1997 but, following his loss to Pacquiao, fell apart due to his battles with alcohol and depression and admission to a rehab clinic after the News of the World published a video that showed him snorting cocaine.
Hatton said Thursday that he will now focus on his promotional company, Hatton Promotions, which has been promoting fight cards for about two years.
Hatton reached the pinnacle of boxing in June 2005 when he won the junior welterweight championship by making Kostya Tszyu -- who was inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame last month -- quit after 11 grueling rounds in what was Tszyu's final fight.
"Beating Kostya Tszyu was my greatest triumph, but there were plenty of other great nights and memories," Hatton said.
In his next fight, Hatton scored a highlight-reel knockout of Carlos Maussa in the ninth round to unify alphabet titles.
Then Hatton decided it was time to come to America, where he made his debut in Boston in May 2006 in the first fight of a multifight contract with promoter Artie Pelullo and HBO. He moved up in weight and scored a controversial decision against Luis Collazo to win a welterweight title.
Hatton never defended the welterweight belt, instead returning to junior welterweight to defend his lineal championship via lopsided decision against Juan Urango and by fourth-round knockout against former lightweight champion Jose Luis Castillo.
Hatton's passionate fans followed him to the United States by the thousands, but the scene was overwhelming in December 2007, when he moved back up to welterweight to challenge Floyd Mayweather Jr. at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas after his deal with Pelullo expired and he signed with Golden Boy.
Some 35,000 Brits flooded the city just to be part of the event, even though most did not have tickets to the fight. But that did not stop the Brits from spending a week partying, waiving British flags, chanting and singing "There's Only One Ricky Hatton!" (to the tune of "Winter Wonderland") before Mayweather knocked Hatton out in the 10th round.
Still the junior welterweight champion, Hatton returned home for his next fight in May 2008 and outpointed Juan Lazcano in front 58,500 at City of Manchester Stadium.
"Since I put on the gloves as a 10-year-old in Hattersley, boxing has been my life and still is," Hatton said. "My promotional company is going well and I am looking forward to taking one of my fighters on a similar road to me. People say no fighter will ever have the fan base I had, but one of my aims is to make sure one of my boxers gets a bigger one and achieves more than me."
Hatton returned to the MGM Grand to stop former titlist Paulie Malignaggi in the 11th round in November 2008 before being knocked cold in a scary scene by Pacquiao in the second round, also at the MGM Grand, six months later.
"Defeating Jose Luis Castillo, unifying the light welterweight title against Carlos Maussa, winning a world welterweight title when I fought Luis Collazo, beating Jon Thaxton to become British champion, fighting in front of almost 60,000 fans on Manchester City's ground -- it seems endless," Hatton said. "And when I look at my record the only men to beat me were Manny and Floyd -- still No. 1 and 2 in the pound-for-pound lists on the day I retire."
Hatton, who loved to tip pints of beer and would famously balloon in weight between fights to the point where he playfully referred to himself as "Ricky Fatton," had his share of problems and scandal after the loss to Pacquiao.
Hatton also had a falling out with original promoter Frank Warren, who had guided him to his first world title, as well as longtime trainer Billy Graham, who wound up suing him, claiming Hatton owed him money.
Besides his promotional company, Hatton, who has a son, Campbell, said he will also continue to focus on family life. His partner, Jennifer Dooley, is expecting their child later this year.
"Away from boxing, I have so much to look forward to," Hatton said. "My son, Campbell, is a boy any parent would be proud to call his lad and is growing up so fast I wonder where the years have gone. I am about to become a dad for the second time and that cannot happen quickly enough. Jennifer and I are so excited. She is my rock.
"There are so many people I want to thank for supporting me throughout my career and who made 'The Hitman's' journey possible. My family were there for me every step of the way. My mum and dad, brother Matthew, my amateur trainers Ted Peate and Paul Dunne, who taught me to box, my agent Paul Speak, my lawyer Gareth Williams, the British Boxing Board of Control and everybody at Hatton Promotions.
"Sky TV has been fantastic to me and I look forward to continuing my association with them as a promoter, the British media were fair and the local BBC and Granada followed me to Las Vegas. As big a thanks as any must go to the fans that would never stop singing and so often turn Las Vegas into a corner of England. Thank you all, but the fighting in the ring is over and I look forward to seeing old friends and meeting new friends on my journey as a promoter."
Dan Rafael is the boxing writer for ESPN.com. Follow him on Twitter @danrafaelespn.
Source: sports.espn.go.com
Thursday, 7 July 2011
Ricky Hatton Retires: Only the Very Best Could Ever Live With the Hitman -- FanHouse
By Chris McKenna, FanHouse
Ricky Hatton's 
decision to finally confirm his retirement is a massive relief to everyone in boxing and they will all be hoping the former two weight world champion is never tempted to put on a pair of gloves again.
The Hitman has decided against a shock return to the sport despite massive cash offers to step into the ring again.
The 32-year-old was reportedly offered a deal to fight ring legend Erik Morales in what would have been his first fight since he was knocked out by Manny Pacquiao in 2009.
Hatton has been deliberating over a comeback ever since that brutal knock out but finally decided today that he will not step into a ring again – and now all fans of the Hitman can breathe a sigh of relief.
He told the News of the World website: "I will never box again and there will be no coming back. There have been so many times since the Pacquiao fight when I have woken up and thought, 'I will give it one more go', but it was not to be.
"There have been amazing highs and, although I always wanted to be a world champion, I went beyond my wildest dreams."
There have been plenty of highs along the way for the 32-year-old who lit up a packed MEN Arena on more than occasion over his 12-year professional career.
The pinnacle of those coming when Hatton forced the highly-rated Kostya Tszyu to quit and claimed his first major world title as he picked up the IBF light-welterweight crown.
It didn't take long for Hatton to unify the title as he brushed past WBA title-holder Carlos Maussa before stepping up to welterweight to become a two-weight world champion with a points win over Luis Collazo – both within a year of his victory over Tszyu.
Hatton was dreaming of becoming the pound for pound best but the man who stood in his way proved to be a step too far.
The British fighter brought 35,000 raucous fans to Las Vegas for his fight with Floyd Mayweather Jr in 2007 in what was a massive spectacle.
Sadly Hatton fell short in the welterweight division and Mayweather forced a 10th-round stoppage, but the Hitman's dream continued and he pressed on.
Wins over Juan Lazcano and Paulie Malignaggi put Hatton back in place for another shot at becoming a pound for pound legend with a fight with Pacquiao lined up.
Again the Brit brought over a massive crowd to Vegas with a massive expectancy that he could topple the Filipino.
But this time Hatton's shortcomings at that level were brutally exposed by Pacquiao who left the British fighter sprawled on the canvas in the second round with his fans unable to look as he was attended to by his cornermen.
Hatton has had his struggles outside of the ring since that faithful night culinating with a national newspaper sting catching him snorting cocaine in a hotel that left the 32-year-old seeking help in rehab for his issues.
But he now seems to have fully recovered and has got his mind back on his promotion company – Hatton Promotions – who are slowly but surely building a strong stable of potential future world champions.
Now he has cleaned up his lifestyle and confirmed he will never fight again, the 32-year-old can now focus on his new ambition of making a world champion rather than being one.
All his supporters will be hoping that focus will keep him clean and also out of the ring for the good of his health.
And although he may not have reached his dream of pound for pound king, Hatton can now bow out knowing that the only men to have beaten him are still the two best active fighters in the world.
Follow FanHouse UK's Chris McKenna on Twitter (@cmckenna87)
Source: fanhouse.co.uk
Ricky Hatton's decision to finally confirm his retirement is a massive relief to everyone in boxing and they will all be hoping the former two weight world champion is never tempted to put on a pair of gloves again.The Hitman has decided against a shock return to the sport despite massive cash offers to step into the ring again.
The 32-year-old was reportedly offered a deal to fight ring legend Erik Morales in what would have been his first fight since he was knocked out by Manny Pacquiao in 2009.
Hatton has been deliberating over a comeback ever since that brutal knock out but finally decided today that he will not step into a ring again – and now all fans of the Hitman can breathe a sigh of relief.
He told the News of the World website: "I will never box again and there will be no coming back. There have been so many times since the Pacquiao fight when I have woken up and thought, 'I will give it one more go', but it was not to be.
"There have been amazing highs and, although I always wanted to be a world champion, I went beyond my wildest dreams."
There have been plenty of highs along the way for the 32-year-old who lit up a packed MEN Arena on more than occasion over his 12-year professional career.
The pinnacle of those coming when Hatton forced the highly-rated Kostya Tszyu to quit and claimed his first major world title as he picked up the IBF light-welterweight crown.
It didn't take long for Hatton to unify the title as he brushed past WBA title-holder Carlos Maussa before stepping up to welterweight to become a two-weight world champion with a points win over Luis Collazo – both within a year of his victory over Tszyu.
Hatton was dreaming of becoming the pound for pound best but the man who stood in his way proved to be a step too far.
The British fighter brought 35,000 raucous fans to Las Vegas for his fight with Floyd Mayweather Jr in 2007 in what was a massive spectacle.
Sadly Hatton fell short in the welterweight division and Mayweather forced a 10th-round stoppage, but the Hitman's dream continued and he pressed on.
Wins over Juan Lazcano and Paulie Malignaggi put Hatton back in place for another shot at becoming a pound for pound legend with a fight with Pacquiao lined up.
Again the Brit brought over a massive crowd to Vegas with a massive expectancy that he could topple the Filipino.
But this time Hatton's shortcomings at that level were brutally exposed by Pacquiao who left the British fighter sprawled on the canvas in the second round with his fans unable to look as he was attended to by his cornermen.
Hatton has had his struggles outside of the ring since that faithful night culinating with a national newspaper sting catching him snorting cocaine in a hotel that left the 32-year-old seeking help in rehab for his issues.
But he now seems to have fully recovered and has got his mind back on his promotion company – Hatton Promotions – who are slowly but surely building a strong stable of potential future world champions.
Now he has cleaned up his lifestyle and confirmed he will never fight again, the 32-year-old can now focus on his new ambition of making a world champion rather than being one.
All his supporters will be hoping that focus will keep him clean and also out of the ring for the good of his health.
And although he may not have reached his dream of pound for pound king, Hatton can now bow out knowing that the only men to have beaten him are still the two best active fighters in the world.
Follow FanHouse UK's Chris McKenna on Twitter (@cmckenna87)
Source: fanhouse.co.uk
Former world champion Ricky Hatton announces retirement from boxing -- Guardian
guardian.co.uk
Ricky Hatton
, Britain's former two-weight world champion, has announced his retirement from boxing.
The 32-year-old has refused to confirm his retirement since his last fight two years ago when he lost to Manny Pacquaio.
Hatton has been linked with several big-name fighters since, most notably the only two men to beat him – Pacquiao and Floyd Mayweather Jr – but he now appears ready to call time on his 14-year professional career.
The Manchester Evening News reported that the Stockport-born fighter will announce his retirement on Thursday afternoon signalling the end of a dramatic career that has seen him achieve success at welterweight and light-welterweight level.
Hatton beat Jon Thaxton to become the British light-welterweight champion in 2000 and went on to dominate the division, with his most notable victory at that weight coming in 2005 against the IBF champion Kostya Tszyu.
Hatton then beat Carlos Maussa before moving up to welterweight where he defeated Luis Collazo to claim the WBA world title.
Rapidly earning a reputation as one of Britain's most popular sportsmen, Hatton went on to challenge Mayweather in Las Vegas. Billed as the defining fight of his career, watched by millions around the world, Hatton failed to take the American's WBC welterweight title after being knocked out in the 10th round.
Undeterred by his first loss in boxing, Hatton returned to winning ways with victories over Juan Lazcano and Paulie Malignaggi before calling out Pacquiao.
The two met at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas in May 2009, when Hatton was knocked out cold in the second round to leave the Mancunian with a 45-2, 32KOs record.
Source: guardian.co.uk
Ricky Hatton, Britain's former two-weight world champion, has announced his retirement from boxing.The 32-year-old has refused to confirm his retirement since his last fight two years ago when he lost to Manny Pacquaio.
Hatton has been linked with several big-name fighters since, most notably the only two men to beat him – Pacquiao and Floyd Mayweather Jr – but he now appears ready to call time on his 14-year professional career.
The Manchester Evening News reported that the Stockport-born fighter will announce his retirement on Thursday afternoon signalling the end of a dramatic career that has seen him achieve success at welterweight and light-welterweight level.
Hatton beat Jon Thaxton to become the British light-welterweight champion in 2000 and went on to dominate the division, with his most notable victory at that weight coming in 2005 against the IBF champion Kostya Tszyu.
Hatton then beat Carlos Maussa before moving up to welterweight where he defeated Luis Collazo to claim the WBA world title.
Rapidly earning a reputation as one of Britain's most popular sportsmen, Hatton went on to challenge Mayweather in Las Vegas. Billed as the defining fight of his career, watched by millions around the world, Hatton failed to take the American's WBC welterweight title after being knocked out in the 10th round.
Undeterred by his first loss in boxing, Hatton returned to winning ways with victories over Juan Lazcano and Paulie Malignaggi before calling out Pacquiao.
The two met at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas in May 2009, when Hatton was knocked out cold in the second round to leave the Mancunian with a 45-2, 32KOs record.
Source: guardian.co.uk
Wednesday, 15 June 2011
PICTURE: Manny Pacquiao poses with United shirt -- The Busby Way
thebusbyway.com
As they say life imitates art.
So is there any surprise Manny Pacquiao is posing with a Manchester United shirt having knocked Man City fan Ricky Hatton out cold in 2009?
Floyd Mayweather also wore a United shirt in the run up to his 2007 fight with Ricky Hatton, a fight where he also stopped the ‘Hitman’ (starting to see a pattern emerge).
Personally I think he could do a job for us in midfield but he may need to bulk up!
Source: thebusbyway.com
So is there any surprise Manny Pacquiao is posing with a Manchester United shirt having knocked Man City fan Ricky Hatton out cold in 2009?
Floyd Mayweather also wore a United shirt in the run up to his 2007 fight with Ricky Hatton, a fight where he also stopped the ‘Hitman’ (starting to see a pattern emerge).
Personally I think he could do a job for us in midfield but he may need to bulk up!
Source: thebusbyway.com
Tuesday, 19 April 2011
Hatton set to climb off the canvas: Hitman considering dramatic comeback against Morales -- Daily Mail
By Jeff Powell, dailymail.co.uk
The Hitman has resumed sparring with Commonwealth welterweight champion Denton Vassell, whom he promotes. He has been assured that his boxer's licence, revoked following his admission of cocaine abuse, is likely to be restored.
The offer to return from quasi-retirement was tabled by Oscar de la Hoya, president of Golden Boy Promotions, while he was in Manchester for Amir Khan's world title defence against Paul McCloskey on Saturday night.
Hatton stands to earn a guaranteed minimum of £1.8million for any comeback fight, £2.4m if he goes straight to Morales. Pay-per-view television would boost purses substantially.
De la Hoya confirmed last night: 'Ricky against Morales would be a wonderful fight in Las Vegas, a great event, a meeting of two real legends of the sport. Fight fans all over the world will want to see that.'
Morales - two years older than Hatton at 34, and the last man to have defeated current pound-for-pound king Manny Pacquiao - is in the midst of a comeback of his own.
De la Hoya said: 'Erik has shown Ricky that it can be done. He was away for three years but has returned to have three fights before putting on a beautiful performance against Marcos Maidana.'
Many American commentators believe Morales was robbed of the narrowest of decisions against Maidana, the younger Argentine puncher who came close to knocking out Khan before losing their 2010 fight of the year.
Hatton has been inactive for just under two years, since being brutally concussed by Pacquiao. He has vacillated about retirement - admitting that his new found involvement as a promoter has been his only partial escape from post-boxing depression - and has kept insisting that he will re-apply for his fighter's licence when the time is right.
That door opened yesterday. Robert Smith, general secretary of the British Boxing Board of Control, said: 'Ricky simply needs to submit his application in the normal way - to his local area council who will pass it on to the full board - and then satisfy all the usual medical requirements.
'I can't foresee there being a problem, since he has served his time.'
Golden Boy officials opened discussions with Hatton before Christmas and now Gareth Williams, The Hitman's legal adviser and an executive of Hatton Promotions, says: 'We have received the firm offer at the meeting with Oscar. Now it's up to Ricky.'
Hatton is discussing the proposal with his father Ray, who is also his manager, and girlfriend Jennifer. Given estimates that it will take Hatton six months to regain full fighting fitness, Golden Boy are viewing an October date against Morales.
Alternatively, he could take an easier warm-up fight in Manchester - an emotional comeback which would fill his beloved City's Eastlands football ground - followed by the big one in Vegas.
Source: dailymail.co.uk
Ricky Hatton is considering a multi-million-dollar comeback leading to a super-fight with Mexican legend Erik Morales.
is considering a multi-million-dollar comeback leading to a super-fight with Mexican legend Erik Morales. The Hitman has resumed sparring with Commonwealth welterweight champion Denton Vassell, whom he promotes. He has been assured that his boxer's licence, revoked following his admission of cocaine abuse, is likely to be restored.
The offer to return from quasi-retirement was tabled by Oscar de la Hoya, president of Golden Boy Promotions, while he was in Manchester for Amir Khan's world title defence against Paul McCloskey on Saturday night.Hatton stands to earn a guaranteed minimum of £1.8million for any comeback fight, £2.4m if he goes straight to Morales. Pay-per-view television would boost purses substantially.
De la Hoya confirmed last night: 'Ricky against Morales would be a wonderful fight in Las Vegas, a great event, a meeting of two real legends of the sport. Fight fans all over the world will want to see that.'
Morales - two years older than Hatton at 34, and the last man to have defeated current pound-for-pound king Manny Pacquiao - is in the midst of a comeback of his own.
De la Hoya said: 'Erik has shown Ricky that it can be done. He was away for three years but has returned to have three fights before putting on a beautiful performance against Marcos Maidana.'
Many American commentators believe Morales was robbed of the narrowest of decisions against Maidana, the younger Argentine puncher who came close to knocking out Khan before losing their 2010 fight of the year.
Hatton has been inactive for just under two years, since being brutally concussed by Pacquiao. He has vacillated about retirement - admitting that his new found involvement as a promoter has been his only partial escape from post-boxing depression - and has kept insisting that he will re-apply for his fighter's licence when the time is right.
That door opened yesterday. Robert Smith, general secretary of the British Boxing Board of Control, said: 'Ricky simply needs to submit his application in the normal way - to his local area council who will pass it on to the full board - and then satisfy all the usual medical requirements.
'I can't foresee there being a problem, since he has served his time.'
Golden Boy officials opened discussions with Hatton before Christmas and now Gareth Williams, The Hitman's legal adviser and an executive of Hatton Promotions, says: 'We have received the firm offer at the meeting with Oscar. Now it's up to Ricky.'
Hatton is discussing the proposal with his father Ray, who is also his manager, and girlfriend Jennifer. Given estimates that it will take Hatton six months to regain full fighting fitness, Golden Boy are viewing an October date against Morales.
Alternatively, he could take an easier warm-up fight in Manchester - an emotional comeback which would fill his beloved City's Eastlands football ground - followed by the big one in Vegas.
Source: dailymail.co.uk
Monday, 7 March 2011
Pacquiao inspires Matthew Hatton -- Examiner
By Ricardo Lois, Examiner.com
Anaheim - Brought in to be the sacrificial lamb for rising boxing superstar Saul Alvarez, Matthew Hatton went 12 rounds Saturday night at the Honda Center against the young Mexican in a losing affair and cited Filipino pound for pound great Manny Pacquiao as his inspiration.
At the official weigh-in Friday afternoon, Alvarez came in over the contracted weight of 150 pounds and Hatton’s brother and promoter Ricky suggested that he walk away and cancel the bout.
Instead of derailing an event attended by approximately 10,000 fight fans and broadcast on HBO, the Brit’ said the show would go on - even though Hatton find himself out-gunned by a younger, bigger fighter.
Where did Hatton’s inspiration to fight on against a bigger man originate from? The one and only Manny Pacquiao.
“Size is not everything,” said Hatton, “Manny Pacquiao is a living testament.”
So when the bell rang to mark the beginning of the first round on Saturday night, most pundits expected Hatton to be knocked out by Alvarez within the scheduled twelve rounds.
Instead Hatton showed resolve and grit by surviving Alvarez’s barrage over twelve rounds and providing the paying public a memorable scrap.
Now doubt, Alvarez won a one-sided affair, but when the final cards were read, Hatton stood proud fueled by the legacy of a fighter who has scaled several weight classes and utterly destroyed bigger men.
Source: examiner.com
Anaheim - Brought in to be the sacrificial lamb for rising boxing superstar Saul Alvarez, Matthew Hatton went 12 rounds Saturday night at the Honda Center against the young Mexican in a losing affair and cited Filipino pound for pound great Manny Pacquiao as his inspiration.
At the official weigh-in Friday afternoon, Alvarez came in over the contracted weight of 150 pounds and Hatton’s brother and promoter Ricky suggested that he walk away and cancel the bout.
Instead of derailing an event attended by approximately 10,000 fight fans and broadcast on HBO, the Brit’ said the show would go on - even though Hatton find himself out-gunned by a younger, bigger fighter.
Where did Hatton’s inspiration to fight on against a bigger man originate from? The one and only Manny Pacquiao.
“Size is not everything,” said Hatton, “Manny Pacquiao is a living testament.”
So when the bell rang to mark the beginning of the first round on Saturday night, most pundits expected Hatton to be knocked out by Alvarez within the scheduled twelve rounds.
Instead Hatton showed resolve and grit by surviving Alvarez’s barrage over twelve rounds and providing the paying public a memorable scrap.
Now doubt, Alvarez won a one-sided affair, but when the final cards were read, Hatton stood proud fueled by the legacy of a fighter who has scaled several weight classes and utterly destroyed bigger men.
Source: examiner.com
Tuesday, 1 March 2011
Hatton hampered by weight limit as Alvarez becomes an even heavier favourite -- Daily Mail
By Jeff Powell, Daily Mail
The going in America was always going to be tough for Matthew Hatton and now it looks like getting even tougher come Saturday night.
The WBC are expected to insist that Hatton's fight with Mexican hot-shot Saul Alvarez for their vacant world title is made at the full light-middleweight limit of 154 lbs.
Ricky the Hitman's younger brother, who has been campaigning at welterweight, has been preparing for a catchweight contest at 150 lbs.
But the WBC were widely criticised for approving an identical compromise when Manny Pacquiao moved up to win a world title in an unprecedented eighth division by massively outpointing two-time light-middleweight champion Antonio Margarito.
When Pacquiao, having reinforced his status as the best pound-for-pound boxer on the planet, relinquished that belt so as to return to middleweight there was a delay before the WBC agreed to sanction Alvarez v Hatton for the championship.
It is believed they were seeking confirmation that this would be an authentic light-middleweight battle.
That - plus a decision by Golden Boy promotions to bring this Friday's weigh-in forward from mid-afternoon to noon - threatens to give Alvarez a substantial advantage in poundage by the time they enter the ring at the Honda Centre in Anaheim, California almost a day and a half later.
Alvarez, a natural light-middleweight, has been the heavy (in every sense) favourite since pen was put to paper for a fight originally conceived as a final eliminator for the world title.
The 20-year-old, undefeated and unusually red-haired Mexican is being fast-tracked to stardom by Golden Boy.
But Hatton, at nine years the older, has always believed he could make his extra experience count.
To his considerable credit, he still does, even though not only the stakes but probably the weight are being raised.
Hatton the Younger said from the start that he would not let the difference of a few pounds deter him or affect the fight.
Now those few pounds look like becoming half a stone......and rising. Even so - and although he acknowledges the prodigious talent which has already made Alvarez a celebrity south of the Mexican border and an eye-catcher in America - he remains confident of pulling off the upset.
That gritty determination is typical of the fight family Hatton. This is the kind of against-the-odds challenge which the Manchester Hitman always relished - and so often overcame before time and Floyd Mayweather Jnr and Pacquiao caught up with him.
Source: dailymail.co.uk
The going in America was always going to be tough for Matthew Hatton and now it looks like getting even tougher come Saturday night.
The WBC are expected to insist that Hatton's fight with Mexican hot-shot Saul Alvarez for their vacant world title is made at the full light-middleweight limit of 154 lbs.
Ricky the Hitman's younger brother, who has been campaigning at welterweight, has been preparing for a catchweight contest at 150 lbs.
But the WBC were widely criticised for approving an identical compromise when Manny Pacquiao moved up to win a world title in an unprecedented eighth division by massively outpointing two-time light-middleweight champion Antonio Margarito.
When Pacquiao, having reinforced his status as the best pound-for-pound boxer on the planet, relinquished that belt so as to return to middleweight there was a delay before the WBC agreed to sanction Alvarez v Hatton for the championship.
It is believed they were seeking confirmation that this would be an authentic light-middleweight battle.
That - plus a decision by Golden Boy promotions to bring this Friday's weigh-in forward from mid-afternoon to noon - threatens to give Alvarez a substantial advantage in poundage by the time they enter the ring at the Honda Centre in Anaheim, California almost a day and a half later.
Alvarez, a natural light-middleweight, has been the heavy (in every sense) favourite since pen was put to paper for a fight originally conceived as a final eliminator for the world title.
The 20-year-old, undefeated and unusually red-haired Mexican is being fast-tracked to stardom by Golden Boy.
But Hatton, at nine years the older, has always believed he could make his extra experience count.
To his considerable credit, he still does, even though not only the stakes but probably the weight are being raised.
Hatton the Younger said from the start that he would not let the difference of a few pounds deter him or affect the fight.
Now those few pounds look like becoming half a stone......and rising. Even so - and although he acknowledges the prodigious talent which has already made Alvarez a celebrity south of the Mexican border and an eye-catcher in America - he remains confident of pulling off the upset.
That gritty determination is typical of the fight family Hatton. This is the kind of against-the-odds challenge which the Manchester Hitman always relished - and so often overcame before time and Floyd Mayweather Jnr and Pacquiao caught up with him.
Source: dailymail.co.uk
Friday, 12 November 2010
Hatton's father not ruling out ring return for Ricky -- ESPN
ESPN
After a video allegedly showing Ricky snorting cocaine was brought to light in the News of the World in September, the fighter checked into rehab with severe depression before having his boxing licence stripped by the British Boxing Board of Control.
Memories of Ricky's last fight are not fond ones - he was savagely knocked out inside two rounds in a devastating defeat at the hands of Filipino Manny Pacquiao in May 2009. But Hatton Snr believes his son is getting back on track, both mentally and physically.
"He's fine at the moment, he's working out in his home gym and he's actually coming into the gym and working out every day alongside the other boxers," he told Sky Sports.
"As of today he's lost well over two stones, he's looking really good and very relaxed. He's getting back to his old self, his sense of humour's there and he's got that little spring in his step. I think working with some of the lads here and giving them a bit of advice and obviously he's feeling a bit fitter."
When asked whether he expects Ricky to return to the ring, he said: "I don't know. Ricky will be the one that makes his mind up. At the moment we're just happy we're seeing Ricky Hatton back and there's a buzz in the gym and just having his presence here and the little bit of advice he's doing."
Source: espn.co.uk
Ricky Hatton has revealed that son Ricky is "getting back to his old self" and he is refusing to rule out the possibility of the former two-weight champion making a ring comeback.
has revealed that son Ricky is "getting back to his old self" and he is refusing to rule out the possibility of the former two-weight champion making a ring comeback. After a video allegedly showing Ricky snorting cocaine was brought to light in the News of the World in September, the fighter checked into rehab with severe depression before having his boxing licence stripped by the British Boxing Board of Control.
Memories of Ricky's last fight are not fond ones - he was savagely knocked out inside two rounds in a devastating defeat at the hands of Filipino Manny Pacquiao in May 2009. But Hatton Snr believes his son is getting back on track, both mentally and physically. "He's fine at the moment, he's working out in his home gym and he's actually coming into the gym and working out every day alongside the other boxers," he told Sky Sports.
"As of today he's lost well over two stones, he's looking really good and very relaxed. He's getting back to his old self, his sense of humour's there and he's got that little spring in his step. I think working with some of the lads here and giving them a bit of advice and obviously he's feeling a bit fitter."
When asked whether he expects Ricky to return to the ring, he said: "I don't know. Ricky will be the one that makes his mind up. At the moment we're just happy we're seeing Ricky Hatton back and there's a buzz in the gym and just having his presence here and the little bit of advice he's doing."
Source: espn.co.uk
Tuesday, 26 October 2010
Ricky Hatton let off over coke allegations but Hitman can't box clever enough to coax Wayne Rooney to Manchester City -- Daily Mail
By Jeff Powell, DailyMail.co.uk
Ricky Hatton is off the hook from possible prosecution for cocaine abuse but has failed to reel in Wayne Rooney to his beloved Manchester City.
It has been a mixed few days for the Hitman. First came the relief that police do not seem to have enough supporting evidence to bring charges following newspaper photographs of him snorting a substance.
Then the disappointment of Rooney's giant U-turn into a new five-year contract at Manchester United.
Whether or not Hatton was acting on authority from City, the word is that he was doing his best to coax Rooney into crossing one of football's great divides.
The two are good mates and are believed to have talked at length on holiday about the transfer which threatened to incite an outbreak of civil war in Manchester.
City have to be aware of the friendship between their most famous fan and the most potent English footballer of his generation.
It would not have been in the interests of manager Roberto Mancini and his mega-rich employers to dissuade Hatton from exciting Rooney's interest in a salary in excess of even the £200,000 a week for which he has now re-settled at Old Trafford.
And if they simply let Hatton get on with acting as an unofficial go-between, they have done nothing wrong.
Certainly, Hatton will have been a persuasive advocate for the club he has followed since childhood - and whose fans have turned out in their thousands to roar support for his boxing heroics on both sides of the Atlantic.
No-one outside the City hierarchy could have been better placed to convince Rooney that the massive spending there will continue until they have built a team to challenge for domination over club football at home and in Europe.
Hatton will have been as concerned about selling City to Rooney as with his own legal position.
The fight fraternity will simply be hoping that the decision not to prosecute him will enable the former world light-welterweight champion to sort out his life after the ring.
Hatton's warrior instincts - as well as his determination to remain a man of the people despite his glory - have cemented a place for him in the hearts of boxing lovers everywhere.
The difficulty of bringing a successful prosecution for the apparent addition of drugs to his lifestyle of boozing and binge-eating helps explain why the British Boxing Board of Control let him keep his promoter's licence despite revoking his permits as a fighter and a trainer.
They are nervous of law suits. Since Hatton has still not formally retired - 'I don't have the urge at the moment but you never know' - he could be encouraged now to re-apply for his boxer's licence.
If so, following his crushing defeats by Floyd Mayweather Jnr and Manny Pacquiao, it would be with an eye to going out as a winner with one last hurrah - at the City stadium.
......................................................................
To the relief of his trainer and promoter, the world's greatest pound-for-pound boxer has arrived back here in the no-nonsense sweat-shop called The Wild Card Gym.
Manny Pacquiao flew in from his native Philippines to concentrate solely on the November 13 set-to with Antonio Margarito in which he hopes to become the first fighter to win world titles in eight different weight divisions, a record which would be likely to stand for all time.
Not a moment too soon, chorused Freddie Roach and Bob Arum as the PacMan was mobbed by hundreds of fans at Los Angeles airport.
Roach the master trainer and Arum the Hall of Fame promoter had become worried that Pacquiao's work as a recently elected congressman in Manilla was undermining his preparation for dealing with the physically much bigger Margarito in their bout for the world light-middleweight title.
Although Typhoon Megi - which killed at least 13 Filipinos and left thousands more homeless - by-passed his training camp in Baguio City, the PacMan was beset by myriad distractions in his own land.
At one point during sparring he told Roach: 'I'm missing my job.'
That reference to his new political career left his trainer saying: 'It would not surprise me now if Manny retired from boxng.'
Personal appearances at gala functions also interrupted the usually spartan training regime and Arum noted: 'Speed is one of Manny's prime assets but he is not looking as quick in the ring at the moment.'
Pacquiao has less than three weeks to re-sharpen his act, although he says: 'I am fully confident of beating Margarito.'
Assuming he is right, a good deal of the credit will go to our own Amir Khan. Bolton's former Olympic silver medallist, also trained by Roach, is getting ready for the biggest fight of his life... a Las Vegas defence of his world light-welterweight title in December against Argentine power-puncher Marcos Maidana.
Khan flew to the Philippines to spar with Pacquiao and will continue to do so here in Hollywood.
Roach says: 'That good work is bringing back the old Manny.'
But for how long? The likelihood is growing that Pacquiao will hang up the gloves early next year, leaving his friend and protegee Khan to take his place in the mega-fight against Floyd Mayweather Jnr which the whole world of boxing has been gagging to see.
......................................................................
As Audley Harrison comes down from Big Bear mountain here in California, the Klitschko brothers are anxious that these six weeks of high altitude training may have given him a decisive advantage over David Haye.
Wladimir and Vitali Kltischko are still hoping to get Haye into a ring and punch his insults back down his throat but the outside chance of those fights ever happening will disappear if the Hayemaker is blown away by the A-Force in Manchester on November 13. No WBA world title, definitely no dea
Wladimir warns Haye: 'I am worried that you will lose to Harrison. In fact, Harrison could well knock you out.'
The younger Klitschko is due to defend his versions of the heavyweight championship on December 11, against yet another London-based fighter.
Fanciful speculation that Wladimir might be on the wrong end of an even greater upset has dwindled with news that Dereck Chisora faces sentencing for assault and theft convictions in court on November 10.
At the least Chisora will have to break off traiining in Scotland. At worst he could be in prison - not in the ring in Germany - on his big night.
Source: dailymail.co.uk
Ricky Hatton is off the hook from possible prosecution for cocaine abuse but has failed to reel in Wayne Rooney to his beloved Manchester City.
It has been a mixed few days for the Hitman. First came the relief that police do not seem to have enough supporting evidence to bring charges following newspaper photographs of him snorting a substance.
Then the disappointment of Rooney's giant U-turn into a new five-year contract at Manchester United.
Whether or not Hatton was acting on authority from City, the word is that he was doing his best to coax Rooney into crossing one of football's great divides. The two are good mates and are believed to have talked at length on holiday about the transfer which threatened to incite an outbreak of civil war in Manchester.
City have to be aware of the friendship between their most famous fan and the most potent English footballer of his generation.
It would not have been in the interests of manager Roberto Mancini and his mega-rich employers to dissuade Hatton from exciting Rooney's interest in a salary in excess of even the £200,000 a week for which he has now re-settled at Old Trafford.
And if they simply let Hatton get on with acting as an unofficial go-between, they have done nothing wrong.
Certainly, Hatton will have been a persuasive advocate for the club he has followed since childhood - and whose fans have turned out in their thousands to roar support for his boxing heroics on both sides of the Atlantic.
No-one outside the City hierarchy could have been better placed to convince Rooney that the massive spending there will continue until they have built a team to challenge for domination over club football at home and in Europe.
Hatton will have been as concerned about selling City to Rooney as with his own legal position.
The fight fraternity will simply be hoping that the decision not to prosecute him will enable the former world light-welterweight champion to sort out his life after the ring.
Hatton's warrior instincts - as well as his determination to remain a man of the people despite his glory - have cemented a place for him in the hearts of boxing lovers everywhere.
The difficulty of bringing a successful prosecution for the apparent addition of drugs to his lifestyle of boozing and binge-eating helps explain why the British Boxing Board of Control let him keep his promoter's licence despite revoking his permits as a fighter and a trainer.
They are nervous of law suits. Since Hatton has still not formally retired - 'I don't have the urge at the moment but you never know' - he could be encouraged now to re-apply for his boxer's licence.
If so, following his crushing defeats by Floyd Mayweather Jnr and Manny Pacquiao, it would be with an eye to going out as a winner with one last hurrah - at the City stadium.
......................................................................
To the relief of his trainer and promoter, the world's greatest pound-for-pound boxer has arrived back here in the no-nonsense sweat-shop called The Wild Card Gym.
Manny Pacquiao flew in from his native Philippines to concentrate solely on the November 13 set-to with Antonio Margarito in which he hopes to become the first fighter to win world titles in eight different weight divisions, a record which would be likely to stand for all time.
Not a moment too soon, chorused Freddie Roach and Bob Arum as the PacMan was mobbed by hundreds of fans at Los Angeles airport.
Roach the master trainer and Arum the Hall of Fame promoter had become worried that Pacquiao's work as a recently elected congressman in Manilla was undermining his preparation for dealing with the physically much bigger Margarito in their bout for the world light-middleweight title.
Although Typhoon Megi - which killed at least 13 Filipinos and left thousands more homeless - by-passed his training camp in Baguio City, the PacMan was beset by myriad distractions in his own land.
At one point during sparring he told Roach: 'I'm missing my job.'
That reference to his new political career left his trainer saying: 'It would not surprise me now if Manny retired from boxng.'
Personal appearances at gala functions also interrupted the usually spartan training regime and Arum noted: 'Speed is one of Manny's prime assets but he is not looking as quick in the ring at the moment.'
Pacquiao has less than three weeks to re-sharpen his act, although he says: 'I am fully confident of beating Margarito.'
Assuming he is right, a good deal of the credit will go to our own Amir Khan. Bolton's former Olympic silver medallist, also trained by Roach, is getting ready for the biggest fight of his life... a Las Vegas defence of his world light-welterweight title in December against Argentine power-puncher Marcos Maidana.
Khan flew to the Philippines to spar with Pacquiao and will continue to do so here in Hollywood.
Roach says: 'That good work is bringing back the old Manny.'
But for how long? The likelihood is growing that Pacquiao will hang up the gloves early next year, leaving his friend and protegee Khan to take his place in the mega-fight against Floyd Mayweather Jnr which the whole world of boxing has been gagging to see.
......................................................................
As Audley Harrison comes down from Big Bear mountain here in California, the Klitschko brothers are anxious that these six weeks of high altitude training may have given him a decisive advantage over David Haye.
Wladimir and Vitali Kltischko are still hoping to get Haye into a ring and punch his insults back down his throat but the outside chance of those fights ever happening will disappear if the Hayemaker is blown away by the A-Force in Manchester on November 13. No WBA world title, definitely no dea
Wladimir warns Haye: 'I am worried that you will lose to Harrison. In fact, Harrison could well knock you out.'
The younger Klitschko is due to defend his versions of the heavyweight championship on December 11, against yet another London-based fighter.
Fanciful speculation that Wladimir might be on the wrong end of an even greater upset has dwindled with news that Dereck Chisora faces sentencing for assault and theft convictions in court on November 10.
At the least Chisora will have to break off traiining in Scotland. At worst he could be in prison - not in the ring in Germany - on his big night.
Source: dailymail.co.uk
Friday, 24 September 2010
Troubled Hatton losing boxing license -- CNN
CNN
Former world champion Ricky Hatton has had his boxing license revoked after damaging revelations about his personal life.
The British Boxing Board of Control took action against the 31-year-old for "bringing the sport into disrepute."
They ruled his "current physical condition is such that the Board decided to withdraw his boxer's licence."
Hatton admitted he was suffering from depression and a drink problem after a tabloid newspaper published video footage of the boxer allegedly using cocaine.
Hatton, a former world light-welterweight champion, last fought in a May 2009 showdown with Manny Pacquiao in Las Vegas, being knocked out in the second round.
Hatton, who had massive following for his all-action style, was also beaten in another money-spinning bout in Nevada by Floyd Mayweather Junior.
After the revelations in the News of the World, the British board called a hearing on Wednesday and issued their judgment Thursday.
Hatton was also fined £20,000 pounds ($31,388) and had his manager license revoked, but they will allow him to continue as a promoter.
The board said they were allowing Hatton to continue in this role because of the effect on "innocent persons" who were employed by his organization, including other professional boxers.
Source: edition.cnn.com
Former world champion Ricky Hatton has had his boxing license revoked after damaging revelations about his personal life.The British Boxing Board of Control took action against the 31-year-old for "bringing the sport into disrepute." They ruled his "current physical condition is such that the Board decided to withdraw his boxer's licence."
Hatton admitted he was suffering from depression and a drink problem after a tabloid newspaper published video footage of the boxer allegedly using cocaine.
Hatton, a former world light-welterweight champion, last fought in a May 2009 showdown with Manny Pacquiao in Las Vegas, being knocked out in the second round.
Hatton, who had massive following for his all-action style, was also beaten in another money-spinning bout in Nevada by Floyd Mayweather Junior.
After the revelations in the News of the World, the British board called a hearing on Wednesday and issued their judgment Thursday.
Hatton was also fined £20,000 pounds ($31,388) and had his manager license revoked, but they will allow him to continue as a promoter.
The board said they were allowing Hatton to continue in this role because of the effect on "innocent persons" who were employed by his organization, including other professional boxers.
Source: edition.cnn.com
Monday, 20 September 2010
Boxer Hatton denies cocaine problem -- AFP
AFP
LONDON — Former world champion Ricky Hatton on Sunday admitted his disgust at having taken cocaine, but stressed he did not think he had a problem.
Hatton was diagnosed with depression and a drink problem by a specialist on Monday after a newspaper published video footage of the boxer allegedly snorting cocaine.
The News of the World secretly filmed Hatton -- who has not fought since being knocked out in the second round of his May 2009 showdown with Manny Pacquiao in Las Vegas -- supposedly using "industrial quantities" of the drug during a marathon 10-hour drinking session.
And the 31-year-old, who is to be investigated by police over his cocaine-usage allegations, told Sunday's edition of the News of the World: "I'm so angry I could knock myself out.
"I'm disgusted at myself for what I have done. I've had a wonderful career and am furious that I have tarnished it."
But he added: "I'm not the slightest bit worried about the cocaine. Problem? What problem?
"I have dabbled with the drug on a few sparing occasions. The only time I have ever done it is when I have been so depressed or drunk that it's a case of, 'Go on then'."
The boxer revealed he had been suffering blackouts, panic attacks and depression following his loss to Pacquiao.
In a video clip, on the newspaper's website, Hatton said: "I'm currently in the Priory (rehabilitation centre) dealing with depression due to the fact that I have not been able to cope with my retirement from boxing.
"I have been binge drinking heavily and dabbling in other daft and silly things but it is going to be the toughest fight of my life and I'm here to win it."
The two-weight world champion was out with friend Emma Bowe, an Irish national senior women's boxing champion, when he was caught on camera.
Hatton has battled with drink and severe depression for "several weeks", according to his spokesman Max Clifford.
His father Ray said he had signed himself into the clinic for an indefinite period.
Greater Manchester Police said officers were aware of the story and planned to question him once his rehabilitation is complete.
Copyright © 2010 AFP. All rights reserved.
Source: google.com
LONDON — Former world champion Ricky Hatton on Sunday admitted his disgust at having taken cocaine, but stressed he did not think he had a problem.
Hatton was diagnosed with depression and a drink problem by a specialist on Monday after a newspaper published video footage of the boxer allegedly snorting cocaine.
The News of the World secretly filmed Hatton -- who has not fought since being knocked out in the second round of his May 2009 showdown with Manny Pacquiao in Las Vegas -- supposedly using "industrial quantities" of the drug during a marathon 10-hour drinking session.And the 31-year-old, who is to be investigated by police over his cocaine-usage allegations, told Sunday's edition of the News of the World: "I'm so angry I could knock myself out.
"I'm disgusted at myself for what I have done. I've had a wonderful career and am furious that I have tarnished it."
But he added: "I'm not the slightest bit worried about the cocaine. Problem? What problem?
"I have dabbled with the drug on a few sparing occasions. The only time I have ever done it is when I have been so depressed or drunk that it's a case of, 'Go on then'."
The boxer revealed he had been suffering blackouts, panic attacks and depression following his loss to Pacquiao.
In a video clip, on the newspaper's website, Hatton said: "I'm currently in the Priory (rehabilitation centre) dealing with depression due to the fact that I have not been able to cope with my retirement from boxing.
"I have been binge drinking heavily and dabbling in other daft and silly things but it is going to be the toughest fight of my life and I'm here to win it."
The two-weight world champion was out with friend Emma Bowe, an Irish national senior women's boxing champion, when he was caught on camera.
Hatton has battled with drink and severe depression for "several weeks", according to his spokesman Max Clifford.
His father Ray said he had signed himself into the clinic for an indefinite period.
Greater Manchester Police said officers were aware of the story and planned to question him once his rehabilitation is complete.
Copyright © 2010 AFP. All rights reserved.
Source: google.com
Sunday, 19 September 2010
Ricky Hatton admits: 'I dabbled in daft and silly things' -- Guardian
By Kevin Mitchell, guardian.co.uk
Ricky Hatton spoke for the first time last night about the heavy drinking and "dabbling in other daft and silly things" that have derailed any thoughts of a comeback and forced him to seek professional help. And his friend Amir Khan, once touted as a possible opponent, pledged his "100%" support for Hatton, even as others in the business distanced themselves from him.
The former light-welterweight and welterweight world champion is in the Priory in Cheshire recovering from the effects of alcohol abuse and the accompanying psychological damage that has built up over several years, although Hatton suggests his problems have surfaced only since he was shockingly knocked out by Manny Pacquiao in his last fight, 16 months ago in Las Vegas.
In a promotional video for his revelations in tomorrow's News of the World, Hatton says: "I'm Ricky Hatton, and I'm here to tell the truth. I'm currently in the Priory dealing with depression due to the fact that I've not been able to cope with my retirement from boxing. I've been binge-drinking heavily and dabbling in other daft and silly things. But it's going to be the toughest fight of my life and I'm here to win it."
The newspaper last Sunday exposed Hatton – "caught on camera snorting cocaine in a shocking 10-hour drink and drugs binge" – in a Manchester hotel two weeks previously.
The video was apparently provided by Hatton's friend, the Irish female amateur boxer, Emma Bowe, who said: "I'm doing this for Ricky's own good. I hope he gets help and advice before cocaine destroys him." But a source close to Hatton said the implication that Hatton's problems have only arisen since the Pacquiao fight is "nonsensical".
"This has been going on for several years," he said. "Ricky has been out of control for a long time. People have told him but he refused to listen."
His father, Ray, said Hatton's drinking got worse because he was always trying, "to please his mates".
Hatton, 31, was unable to attend a fund-raiser in Bolton last night, organised by Khan, because of his move to the Priory, where he is likely to stay for at least a couple of weeks.
"I spoke to Ricky yesterday," Khan said. "He's in rehab, but we are all 100% behind him. If he needs any help, I am here, as is Team Khan. He is a rich young guy and has made mistakes. He got in with the wrong crowd. He has to learn from this mistake and come back stronger."
Hatton looked bloated and downcast in the promotional video for tomorrow's revelations, and, while it might come as a surprise that he has chosen to give his story to the very paper that exposed him, Hatton retains the sympathy of one of the biggest fan bases in British sport.
He packed out venues throughout the country at speaking engagements that earned him up to £7,000 a night and had embarked on a successful career as a promoter.
The British Boxing Board of Control, as well as Manchester police, want to interview Hatton about his activities, suggesting he might lose his board licence and receive at least a police caution.
Source: guardian.co.uk
Ricky Hatton spoke for the first time last night about the heavy drinking and "dabbling in other daft and silly things" that have derailed any thoughts of a comeback and forced him to seek professional help. And his friend Amir Khan, once touted as a possible opponent, pledged his "100%" support for Hatton, even as others in the business distanced themselves from him.
The former light-welterweight and welterweight world champion is in the Priory in Cheshire recovering from the effects of alcohol abuse and the accompanying psychological damage that has built up over several years, although Hatton suggests his problems have surfaced only since he was shockingly knocked out by Manny Pacquiao in his last fight, 16 months ago in Las Vegas.In a promotional video for his revelations in tomorrow's News of the World, Hatton says: "I'm Ricky Hatton, and I'm here to tell the truth. I'm currently in the Priory dealing with depression due to the fact that I've not been able to cope with my retirement from boxing. I've been binge-drinking heavily and dabbling in other daft and silly things. But it's going to be the toughest fight of my life and I'm here to win it."
The newspaper last Sunday exposed Hatton – "caught on camera snorting cocaine in a shocking 10-hour drink and drugs binge" – in a Manchester hotel two weeks previously.
The video was apparently provided by Hatton's friend, the Irish female amateur boxer, Emma Bowe, who said: "I'm doing this for Ricky's own good. I hope he gets help and advice before cocaine destroys him." But a source close to Hatton said the implication that Hatton's problems have only arisen since the Pacquiao fight is "nonsensical".
"This has been going on for several years," he said. "Ricky has been out of control for a long time. People have told him but he refused to listen."
His father, Ray, said Hatton's drinking got worse because he was always trying, "to please his mates".
Hatton, 31, was unable to attend a fund-raiser in Bolton last night, organised by Khan, because of his move to the Priory, where he is likely to stay for at least a couple of weeks.
"I spoke to Ricky yesterday," Khan said. "He's in rehab, but we are all 100% behind him. If he needs any help, I am here, as is Team Khan. He is a rich young guy and has made mistakes. He got in with the wrong crowd. He has to learn from this mistake and come back stronger."
Hatton looked bloated and downcast in the promotional video for tomorrow's revelations, and, while it might come as a surprise that he has chosen to give his story to the very paper that exposed him, Hatton retains the sympathy of one of the biggest fan bases in British sport.
He packed out venues throughout the country at speaking engagements that earned him up to £7,000 a night and had embarked on a successful career as a promoter.
The British Boxing Board of Control, as well as Manchester police, want to interview Hatton about his activities, suggesting he might lose his board licence and receive at least a police caution.
Source: guardian.co.uk
Thursday, 16 September 2010
De La Hoya saddened by Hatton, Mayweather crises -- The Ring
By Michael Rosenthal, The Ring
LOS ANGELES – Oscar De La Hoya said on Tuesday that the recent personal crises of Ricky Hatton and Floyd Mayeather Jr. might be cries for help.
Hatton was caught on video snorting cocaine and has reportedly checked into a rehabilitation facility. Mayweather went on a racist rant aimed at Manny Pacquiao, after which he apologized, and was later arrested on felony larceny charges after an argument with his ex-girlfriend.
“My reaction is that I wish all the best for them,” De La Hoya said. “Maybe it’s a cry for help. They definitely, especially Ricky Hatton, needs help. … He’s going to self destruct. … I would tell him, ‘I want to help you. I’m your friend, I’m your father, I’m your brother.’ He’s in a world right now, if he continues, he’s going to self destruct. He could die. So he needs help.”
De La Hoya obviously has to be careful what he says publicly about Mayweather because they have a working relationship. Still, he seemed to have genuine compassion for his former rival.
“Maybe it’s a cry for help too,” De La Hoya said. “One never knows. Maybe he has his own problems. … Ricky Hatton is a good guy. I truly feel Floyd Mayweather is a good guy too. He can be a nice guy. I’ve seen him in action. He can be nice.
“Sometimes it’s a sign someone needs help. I can just say I wish the best for anybody in that situation because it’s sad.”
Source: ringtv.com
LOS ANGELES – Oscar De La Hoya said on Tuesday that the recent personal crises of Ricky Hatton and Floyd Mayeather Jr. might be cries for help.
Hatton was caught on video snorting cocaine and has reportedly checked into a rehabilitation facility. Mayweather went on a racist rant aimed at Manny Pacquiao, after which he apologized, and was later arrested on felony larceny charges after an argument with his ex-girlfriend.
“My reaction is that I wish all the best for them,” De La Hoya said. “Maybe it’s a cry for help. They definitely, especially Ricky Hatton, needs help. … He’s going to self destruct. … I would tell him, ‘I want to help you. I’m your friend, I’m your father, I’m your brother.’ He’s in a world right now, if he continues, he’s going to self destruct. He could die. So he needs help.”De La Hoya obviously has to be careful what he says publicly about Mayweather because they have a working relationship. Still, he seemed to have genuine compassion for his former rival.
“Maybe it’s a cry for help too,” De La Hoya said. “One never knows. Maybe he has his own problems. … Ricky Hatton is a good guy. I truly feel Floyd Mayweather is a good guy too. He can be a nice guy. I’ve seen him in action. He can be nice.
“Sometimes it’s a sign someone needs help. I can just say I wish the best for anybody in that situation because it’s sad.”
Source: ringtv.com
Wednesday, 15 September 2010
Pacquiao saddened by Hatton’s crisis -- ABS-CBN News
abs-cbnNEWS.com
MANILA, Philippines – Filipino boxing superstar Manny Pacquiao has expressed hope that his erstwhile opponent Ricky Hatton will overcome the personal crisis he is going through.
The former junior welterweight champion from Britain was diagnosed with depression and was caught on video allegedly snorting cocaine. He also reportedly has a drinking problem.
“I feel sad because of what happened. Sana magbago na siya,” said Pacquiao while training at the Elorde Gym in Quezon City for his November 13 fight against Mexico’s Antonio Margarito.
Hatton reportedly got depressed and addicted to drugs and alcohol after he lost to to Pacquiao in May 2009 via a second-round knockout.
It was the worst beating for Hatton, who terrorized the junior welterweight division before his loss to the Filipino. His only other loss was to Floyd Mayweather Jr. when he climbed the welterweight class in December 27.
Pacquiao advised Hatton to renew his faith so he can survive his crisis.
“Don't tell God that you have a great problem but tell your problem that you have a great God,” said the Filipino.
A newspaper earlier published a video footage of the boxer allegedly snorting cocaine.
The News of the World secretly filmed Hatton supposedly using "industrial quantities" of the drug during a marathon 10-hour drinking session.
The boxer later was reportedly “distraught and devastated” after learning that his alleged drug use was publicized.
"He's very upset and very down as you'd imagine," his spokesman Max Clifford told BBC radio. "He said he feels he's let everyone down: himself, family, friends and the many fans who have been nothing but supportive.” -- With reports from Dyan Castillejo, ABS-CBN, Agence France-Presse and Reuters
Source: abs-cbnnews.com
MANILA, Philippines – Filipino boxing superstar Manny Pacquiao has expressed hope that his erstwhile opponent Ricky Hatton will overcome the personal crisis he is going through.
The former junior welterweight champion from Britain was diagnosed with depression and was caught on video allegedly snorting cocaine. He also reportedly has a drinking problem.
“I feel sad because of what happened. Sana magbago na siya,” said Pacquiao while training at the Elorde Gym in Quezon City for his November 13 fight against Mexico’s Antonio Margarito.
Hatton reportedly got depressed and addicted to drugs and alcohol after he lost to to Pacquiao in May 2009 via a second-round knockout.It was the worst beating for Hatton, who terrorized the junior welterweight division before his loss to the Filipino. His only other loss was to Floyd Mayweather Jr. when he climbed the welterweight class in December 27.
Pacquiao advised Hatton to renew his faith so he can survive his crisis.
“Don't tell God that you have a great problem but tell your problem that you have a great God,” said the Filipino.
A newspaper earlier published a video footage of the boxer allegedly snorting cocaine.
The News of the World secretly filmed Hatton supposedly using "industrial quantities" of the drug during a marathon 10-hour drinking session.
The boxer later was reportedly “distraught and devastated” after learning that his alleged drug use was publicized.
"He's very upset and very down as you'd imagine," his spokesman Max Clifford told BBC radio. "He said he feels he's let everyone down: himself, family, friends and the many fans who have been nothing but supportive.” -- With reports from Dyan Castillejo, ABS-CBN, Agence France-Presse and Reuters
Source: abs-cbnnews.com
Tuesday, 14 September 2010
Shamed pair Ricky Hatton and Floyd Mayweather Jnr facing the biggest fights of their lives -- Daily Mail
By Jeff Powell, DailyMail.co.uk
It is less than three years since Ricky Hatton squared off against Floyd Mayweather Jnr in a Las Vegas ring for one of the most enriching fights in boxing history.
Now, although they are still comparatively young men, their lives are unravelling in trans-Atlantic tandem.
The Hitman is falling apart in a haze of booze laced with lines of cocaine
The Money Man is stumbling from a racist rant against Manny Pacquiao into a court room to face charges of assault and larceny.
If the Englishman is not warned off his self-destructive lifestyle, there is a serious risk that he will end up in an early grave.
If the American cannot convince a Nevada judge that he neither beat up the mother of his children nor stole her mobile phone then he could wind up in the state penitentiary.
Hatton is facing a long battle with himself which will be tougher, even, than his twin KO defeats by Mayweather and Pacquiao .
Mayweather has a fight in November but not the one the world wanted to see - and which may never happen now.
Instead of challenging Pacquiao for the mythical title of world's best pound-for-pound fighter, he will be answering $3,000 bail and trying to defend himself against a prison term of anything up to 10 years.
The question of drugs swirls around both of them.
Hatton, thank goodness, is not in denial, His admission that he needs help to combat the ravages of his binges on coke as well as alcohol and fast food can be a first step towards salvation.
Mayweather's insinuations that Pacquiao bulked up from featherweight with the help of performance-enhancing substances are rebounding on him in the US.
Michael Marley, a New York lawyer who is also one of the most widely read boxing columnists over there, is not alone in noting the irony that Mayweather's extreme behaviour bears some similarities to steroid rage.
Since there is no more evidence of Mayweather using drugs than there is of Pacquiao, it is more likely that the Money Man cannot deal psychologically with the Pacman's ascendancy over modern boxing.
Fewer tears will be shed for Mayweather than for Hatton.
For all that he so desperately wants to be loved, Mayweather can neither contain the foul-mouthed arrogance which offends so many nor summon up the grace expected of a people's champion.
This man's idea of a charm offensive is to tell everyone how effing wonderful he is.
By contrast, Hatton's plight will evoke as much sympathy as it will provoke condemnation.
Generosity of spirit, not uncontrolled ego, is his problem. The Hitman is a warm, funny, engaging and - albeit with warts and all - genuine character.
As such he has won the affection not only of millions in Britain but of many in America, where they also loved his warrior exploits in the ring.
A natural-born fighter, Hatton thrilled and entertained us down his fighting years. How sad that, after deferring confirmation of his retirement, his world-beating career should end in sordid revelations on the front page of the News of the World.
Perhaps it was always going to be thus for a working-class boy whose hunger for doing everything to extremes was a primal factor in his drive to the top.
Mayweather had to fight his way up, too. But how different they have been since they got there.
While Mayweather luridly flashes his cash, Hatton is as discreetly giving to those around him and to deserving causes as he is indulgent with himself.
Ultimately, once the scandal subsides, the Hitman will be remembered fondly and with pride by the British public.
One of the most amusing personalities ever to lace up the gloves, we will want to laugh with him, not at him.
Mayweather won their fight in December 2007 but not the battle for hearts and minds.
Now, as the Hitman battles with his demons and the Money Man rages against all who dispute his claim to be the greatest, the Pacman will simply get on with proving his magnificence by fighting Antonio Margarito in front of a 75,000 crowd in the glittering new Cowboys Stadium in Dallas on November 13.
If only everything in boxing were that simple.
Source: dailymail.co.uk
It is less than three years since Ricky Hatton squared off against Floyd Mayweather Jnr in a Las Vegas ring for one of the most enriching fights in boxing history.
Now, although they are still comparatively young men, their lives are unravelling in trans-Atlantic tandem.
The Hitman is falling apart in a haze of booze laced with lines of cocaine
The Money Man is stumbling from a racist rant against Manny Pacquiao into a court room to face charges of assault and larceny.If the Englishman is not warned off his self-destructive lifestyle, there is a serious risk that he will end up in an early grave.
If the American cannot convince a Nevada judge that he neither beat up the mother of his children nor stole her mobile phone then he could wind up in the state penitentiary.
Hatton is facing a long battle with himself which will be tougher, even, than his twin KO defeats by Mayweather and Pacquiao .
Mayweather has a fight in November but not the one the world wanted to see - and which may never happen now.
Instead of challenging Pacquiao for the mythical title of world's best pound-for-pound fighter, he will be answering $3,000 bail and trying to defend himself against a prison term of anything up to 10 years.
The question of drugs swirls around both of them.
Hatton, thank goodness, is not in denial, His admission that he needs help to combat the ravages of his binges on coke as well as alcohol and fast food can be a first step towards salvation.
Mayweather's insinuations that Pacquiao bulked up from featherweight with the help of performance-enhancing substances are rebounding on him in the US.
Michael Marley, a New York lawyer who is also one of the most widely read boxing columnists over there, is not alone in noting the irony that Mayweather's extreme behaviour bears some similarities to steroid rage.
Since there is no more evidence of Mayweather using drugs than there is of Pacquiao, it is more likely that the Money Man cannot deal psychologically with the Pacman's ascendancy over modern boxing.
Fewer tears will be shed for Mayweather than for Hatton.
For all that he so desperately wants to be loved, Mayweather can neither contain the foul-mouthed arrogance which offends so many nor summon up the grace expected of a people's champion.
This man's idea of a charm offensive is to tell everyone how effing wonderful he is.
By contrast, Hatton's plight will evoke as much sympathy as it will provoke condemnation.
Generosity of spirit, not uncontrolled ego, is his problem. The Hitman is a warm, funny, engaging and - albeit with warts and all - genuine character.
As such he has won the affection not only of millions in Britain but of many in America, where they also loved his warrior exploits in the ring.
A natural-born fighter, Hatton thrilled and entertained us down his fighting years. How sad that, after deferring confirmation of his retirement, his world-beating career should end in sordid revelations on the front page of the News of the World.
Perhaps it was always going to be thus for a working-class boy whose hunger for doing everything to extremes was a primal factor in his drive to the top.
Mayweather had to fight his way up, too. But how different they have been since they got there.
While Mayweather luridly flashes his cash, Hatton is as discreetly giving to those around him and to deserving causes as he is indulgent with himself.
Ultimately, once the scandal subsides, the Hitman will be remembered fondly and with pride by the British public.
One of the most amusing personalities ever to lace up the gloves, we will want to laugh with him, not at him.
Mayweather won their fight in December 2007 but not the battle for hearts and minds.
Now, as the Hitman battles with his demons and the Money Man rages against all who dispute his claim to be the greatest, the Pacman will simply get on with proving his magnificence by fighting Antonio Margarito in front of a 75,000 crowd in the glittering new Cowboys Stadium in Dallas on November 13.
If only everything in boxing were that simple.
Source: dailymail.co.uk
Hatton checks into rehab with severe depression -- ESPN
ESPN staff
Former world champion Ricky Hatton is expected to meet with the British Boxing Board of Control (BBBC) to discuss allegations of cocaine misuse after checking into rehab.
Publicist Max Clifford confirmed on Monday that Hatton has been diagnosed with severe depression and a drink problem, although he insists drugs are not the major issue following newspaper allegations that he took cocaine in a Manchester hotel.
"He met with the specialist today for four, five, six hours and he was told that his depression is severe depression and that he has a drink problem," said Clifford. "The drugs are quite recent and not actually the problem when we're talking about degrees.
"They are very confident if he does what they tell him with the treatment, therapy and advice, he can sort himself out. And he will do what they tell him."
Clifford continued: "He's been relieved by what they've told him. They've said, 'This is your problem, this is what's wrong, and we can sort it out. You should have come to us a long time ago'. It's been a shaft of sunshine coming through. He's faced up to it now even though he hasn't for some time and it's been there for some time."
Hatton is reported to be 'devastated' following Sunday's allegations in the News of the World. According to the fighter's official website he has agreed to seek treatment "following an emotional meeting with his close family".
Hatton has not fought since his defeat to Manny Pacquiao in May 2009, but has not ruled out a return to the ring and renewed his fighting licence in July. He is also a licensed promoter, and could face heavy punishment, including having both his fight and promoter's licences withdrawn.
"Clearly, the Board knows nothing of the actions referred to by the News of the World," said BBBC chairman Charles Giles in a statement. "But the Board will want to see Ricky Hatton at the earliest opportunity and discuss the issues raised in the press accounts with him."
The statement continued: "The Board enforces the strictest standards with regard to the use of both recreational and performance-enhancing drugs by participants in any capacity in professional boxing: it is concerned at all times to ensure that the sport is run in the best interests both of those who take part in boxing, and the public interest, and that those involved in professional boxing, do nothing to damage the reputation of the sport."
Source: espn.co.uk
Former world champion Ricky Hatton is expected to meet with the British Boxing Board of Control (BBBC) to discuss allegations of cocaine misuse after checking into rehab.
Publicist Max Clifford confirmed on Monday that Hatton has been diagnosed with severe depression and a drink problem, although he insists drugs are not the major issue following newspaper allegations that he took cocaine in a Manchester hotel.
"He met with the specialist today for four, five, six hours and he was told that his depression is severe depression and that he has a drink problem," said Clifford. "The drugs are quite recent and not actually the problem when we're talking about degrees. "They are very confident if he does what they tell him with the treatment, therapy and advice, he can sort himself out. And he will do what they tell him."
Clifford continued: "He's been relieved by what they've told him. They've said, 'This is your problem, this is what's wrong, and we can sort it out. You should have come to us a long time ago'. It's been a shaft of sunshine coming through. He's faced up to it now even though he hasn't for some time and it's been there for some time."
Hatton is reported to be 'devastated' following Sunday's allegations in the News of the World. According to the fighter's official website he has agreed to seek treatment "following an emotional meeting with his close family".
Hatton has not fought since his defeat to Manny Pacquiao in May 2009, but has not ruled out a return to the ring and renewed his fighting licence in July. He is also a licensed promoter, and could face heavy punishment, including having both his fight and promoter's licences withdrawn.
"Clearly, the Board knows nothing of the actions referred to by the News of the World," said BBBC chairman Charles Giles in a statement. "But the Board will want to see Ricky Hatton at the earliest opportunity and discuss the issues raised in the press accounts with him."
The statement continued: "The Board enforces the strictest standards with regard to the use of both recreational and performance-enhancing drugs by participants in any capacity in professional boxing: it is concerned at all times to ensure that the sport is run in the best interests both of those who take part in boxing, and the public interest, and that those involved in professional boxing, do nothing to damage the reputation of the sport."
Source: espn.co.uk
Monday, 13 September 2010
I need a Hit, Man -- The Sun
By GUY PATRICK, ALEX PEAKE and RICHARD MORIARTY, The Sun
THEY call him the Hitman because he batters opponents. But the wild eyes and wobbly legs prove it's Ricky Hatton who's taken a hit or two this time.
This pitiful picture shows the bloated, sweating boxing star struggling to stay upright as pals carry him from a bar after an all-day bender.
It was taken by a horrified fan in Marbella's Puerto Banus, Spain, a few weeks before yesterday's revelation that Hatton had been filmed snorting cocaine while on yet another marathon binge.
The fan said: "It was really sad to see. He was such a mess, sweating and hugely overweight.
"He was obviously wired on something. It might have been just booze but I doubt it.
"By the end he couldn't stand up. He was clinging to his pals as they disappeared into the night."
As the ex-welterweight and light welterweight world champion yesterday pledged to check into rehab, friends said he has been trapped in a cocaine and booze-fuelled haze for MONTHS.
One source said: "His coke problem has been getting ridiculous. This wasn't just one party night out on the town.
"The fact he's being doing cocaine was an open secret among those close to him.
"In a way we're almost relieved he's been caught out because something had to be done. He couldn't go on like that."
Hatton, 31, who was secretly filmed as he snorted cocaine through a rolled-up ฃ20 note, yesterday acknowledged he needed professional help for a problem that had spiralled out of control.
He said: "I've been in a bad place for some time. It's all down to me. I feel I have let everyone down especially all my fans in the country who have always supported me.
"I know I've got to make it better. I've now got the biggest fight of my life."
Spokesman Max Clifford said: "It's become apparent to those closest to him over recent weeks and months that Ricky had a drink problem. Clearly it was worse that that.
"His family are obviously very concerned for him and have become increasingly so.
"Ricky has given them an assurance he will go into rehab in a matter of days.
"I think it is fair to say, friends and family have been trying to warn him in recent times, for the last few months. And now they are all hoping this situation will bring him to his senses."
Mr Clifford said Hatton, who has not fought since losing his title to Manny Pacquiao in Las Vegas last May, had found it hard to adjust to life outside the ring.
He added: "Since retirement he has found it very difficult. There has been something missing in his life - boxing.
"In his own words he says he's been in a bad place for some time. Probably before even his last fight. He is very upset and very subdued, very flat."
On the night of his drug shame during a bender in Manchester, Hatton snorted seven lines of cocaine and sank 11 pints of Guinness, four vodkas, two glasses of wine and several sambucas.
Hatton is known for his love of the high-life - a passion that has brought him into contact with party girls including Samii Darnley. Samii is a pal of Wayne Rooney's hooker Jenny Thompson and was herself chatted up by the footballer.
During his benders Hatton sometimes got so hammered he passed out after returning home before he could make it to the front door.
Horrified fiancee Jenny Dooley would find him the next morning lying on the drive of their luxurious home in Hyde, Gtr Manchester. She is said to have told friends: "He's out of control."
One source close to Hatton said: "Jenny has found him spark-out on the driveway several times.
"He was barely able to move and totally incoherent."
Boxing promoter Frank Warren said the binges made nonsense of rumours that Hatton was about to return to the ring.
And he warned that the boxer was setting a terrible example to the young fighters he had started to manage. Mr Warren added: "It's no secret that Ricky's being doing it for a long time.
"The idea of him fighting again is ridiculous. I think the most important thing is that Ricky obviously needs help.
"The other side of things is that the British Board of Boxing Control need to wheel him in and talk to him. Here's a guy that is promoting and managing young fighters. What kind of a message is he sending them?"
Yesterday one of Ricky's confidantes gave a graphic account of how the boxer deteriorates into a stumbling drunk on night's out.
The pal said: "He just gets completely wasted. It's just pint after pint after pint.
"Looking back I suppose he could have been on drugs too because the way he behaved was certainly erratic.
"He can't walk in a straight line. He's not a bad drunk - he's harmless. But people are always having to help him to his feet."
Hatton's dad Ray yesterday pledged his support. He said: "The family are just dealing with it, which is what he needs at the minute. That's all I want to say about it.
Hatton, who has a son of nine, was knocked out in the second round of his title bout against Filipino Manny Pacquiao.
But he has yet to confirm his retirement and even hinted at a return to the ring by recently renewing his boxer's licence with the Boxing Board of Control.
A potential "super-fight" against fellow Briton Amir Khan, the current WBA light-welterweight champion, has been suggested.
Hatton, who was awarded an MBE in 2006, was filmed snorting cocaine at a hotel two weeks ago while on a night out with friend Emma Bowe, 29.
Emma, the Irish national senior women's boxing champion, told the News of the World: "I'm only talking about this because Ricky is a danger to himself. I'm really, really worried for him."
g.patrick@the-sun.co.uk
Source: thesun.co.uk
THEY call him the Hitman because he batters opponents. But the wild eyes and wobbly legs prove it's Ricky Hatton who's taken a hit or two this time.
This pitiful picture shows the bloated, sweating boxing star struggling to stay upright as pals carry him from a bar after an all-day bender.
It was taken by a horrified fan in Marbella's Puerto Banus, Spain, a few weeks before yesterday's revelation that Hatton had been filmed snorting cocaine while on yet another marathon binge. The fan said: "It was really sad to see. He was such a mess, sweating and hugely overweight.
"He was obviously wired on something. It might have been just booze but I doubt it.
"By the end he couldn't stand up. He was clinging to his pals as they disappeared into the night."
As the ex-welterweight and light welterweight world champion yesterday pledged to check into rehab, friends said he has been trapped in a cocaine and booze-fuelled haze for MONTHS.
One source said: "His coke problem has been getting ridiculous. This wasn't just one party night out on the town.
"The fact he's being doing cocaine was an open secret among those close to him.
"In a way we're almost relieved he's been caught out because something had to be done. He couldn't go on like that."
Hatton, 31, who was secretly filmed as he snorted cocaine through a rolled-up ฃ20 note, yesterday acknowledged he needed professional help for a problem that had spiralled out of control.
He said: "I've been in a bad place for some time. It's all down to me. I feel I have let everyone down especially all my fans in the country who have always supported me.
"I know I've got to make it better. I've now got the biggest fight of my life."
Spokesman Max Clifford said: "It's become apparent to those closest to him over recent weeks and months that Ricky had a drink problem. Clearly it was worse that that.
"His family are obviously very concerned for him and have become increasingly so.
"Ricky has given them an assurance he will go into rehab in a matter of days.
"I think it is fair to say, friends and family have been trying to warn him in recent times, for the last few months. And now they are all hoping this situation will bring him to his senses."
Mr Clifford said Hatton, who has not fought since losing his title to Manny Pacquiao in Las Vegas last May, had found it hard to adjust to life outside the ring.
He added: "Since retirement he has found it very difficult. There has been something missing in his life - boxing.
"In his own words he says he's been in a bad place for some time. Probably before even his last fight. He is very upset and very subdued, very flat."
On the night of his drug shame during a bender in Manchester, Hatton snorted seven lines of cocaine and sank 11 pints of Guinness, four vodkas, two glasses of wine and several sambucas.
Hatton is known for his love of the high-life - a passion that has brought him into contact with party girls including Samii Darnley. Samii is a pal of Wayne Rooney's hooker Jenny Thompson and was herself chatted up by the footballer.
During his benders Hatton sometimes got so hammered he passed out after returning home before he could make it to the front door.
Horrified fiancee Jenny Dooley would find him the next morning lying on the drive of their luxurious home in Hyde, Gtr Manchester. She is said to have told friends: "He's out of control."
One source close to Hatton said: "Jenny has found him spark-out on the driveway several times.
"He was barely able to move and totally incoherent."
Boxing promoter Frank Warren said the binges made nonsense of rumours that Hatton was about to return to the ring.
And he warned that the boxer was setting a terrible example to the young fighters he had started to manage. Mr Warren added: "It's no secret that Ricky's being doing it for a long time.
"The idea of him fighting again is ridiculous. I think the most important thing is that Ricky obviously needs help.
"The other side of things is that the British Board of Boxing Control need to wheel him in and talk to him. Here's a guy that is promoting and managing young fighters. What kind of a message is he sending them?"
Yesterday one of Ricky's confidantes gave a graphic account of how the boxer deteriorates into a stumbling drunk on night's out.
The pal said: "He just gets completely wasted. It's just pint after pint after pint.
"Looking back I suppose he could have been on drugs too because the way he behaved was certainly erratic.
"He can't walk in a straight line. He's not a bad drunk - he's harmless. But people are always having to help him to his feet."
Hatton's dad Ray yesterday pledged his support. He said: "The family are just dealing with it, which is what he needs at the minute. That's all I want to say about it.
Hatton, who has a son of nine, was knocked out in the second round of his title bout against Filipino Manny Pacquiao.
But he has yet to confirm his retirement and even hinted at a return to the ring by recently renewing his boxer's licence with the Boxing Board of Control.
A potential "super-fight" against fellow Briton Amir Khan, the current WBA light-welterweight champion, has been suggested.
Hatton, who was awarded an MBE in 2006, was filmed snorting cocaine at a hotel two weeks ago while on a night out with friend Emma Bowe, 29.
Emma, the Irish national senior women's boxing champion, told the News of the World: "I'm only talking about this because Ricky is a danger to himself. I'm really, really worried for him."
g.patrick@the-sun.co.uk
Source: thesun.co.uk
Ricky Hatton admits cocaine addiction and will enter rehab this week -- Mirror
By Martin Fricker, Mirror.co.uk
Ricky Hatton will check into a rehab clinic this week after tearfully confessing to a year-long cocaine addiction.
The former boxing world champ was caught on camera snorting “industrial” amounts of cocaine during a sordid drink-and-drugs binge a fortnight ago.
Hatton admitted being hooked on the Class A drug in an emotional heart-to-heart with fiancée Jennifer Dooley yesterday.
He told her: “I’ve been an idiot and I’m so sorry and ashamed. I need and want to sort myself out.”
She was horrified to discover Hatton, 31, had seven lines of cocaine during a night out in Manchester.
The bloated ex-boxer then admitted he had been taking the drug for almost a year – beginning shortly after his last fight, when he was knocked out in two rounds by Filipino boxer Manny Pacquiao.
Hatton was caught on film taking out a wrap of cocaine hidden in his shoe before chopping up lines with a credit card in a hotel room.
He then expertly snorted the drug through a rolled up £20 note.
In addition to the seven lines of cocaine that night, he drank 11 pints of Guinness, four vodkas, two glasses of wine and several sambuccas.
But a source close to the retired fighter, who became a national hero as world light-welterweight king, said: “He’s now vowed to get himself clean. He’ll go into a rehab clinic very soon and he has the support of Jen and the rest of his family.”
The source revealed Hatton – nicknamed The Hitman during his career – had struggled to cope with life outside the ring.
“He is very down – devastated, in fact,” the friend said. “He had a tearful talk with Jennifer and held his hands up. This has been coming for some time and everyone around him is hoping it’s a wake-up call.
“Ricky is disgusted with himself. He feels he has let himself, his family, his friends and his fans down.
“He has struggled to cope since giving up the fighting. He went from world champion to a retired ex-pro and it is hard for him.
“A few people around Ricky have been concerned for a while.”
Friends were also shocked to learn “anti-drugs” Hatton, who was awarded an MBE, was on cocaine.
One said: “He was always adamant he would never touch the stuff.”
And pal Emma Bowe, who witnessed him snorting cocaine, said: “If he carries on, he’ll kill himself. I’m really, really worried for him. If he tries to make a comeback in the ring, as he’s hinted, he could have a heart attack. “To see him abusing drugs was such a let-down. He was a role model.”
Yesterday, it also emerged Hatton was floored in a pub after a row over a fruit machine queue.
A bodybuilder twice his size accused him of pushing in and sent him sprawling across tables at the Railway Inn in Hyde, Manchester.
During the tail-end of his career, Hatton was known to balloon in weight between fights and revelled in the nickname Ricky “Fatton”.
During a four-day booze binge after his defeat by American Floyd Mayweather Jnr in 2007, the first of just two career losses, he downed 57 pints, 17 vodka and Red Bulls, four vodkas, three whisky chasers and a bottle of champagne.
Earlier this year, fellow boxer Joe Calzaghe also confessed to taking cocaine after retiring from the ring.
Source: mirror.co.uk
Ricky Hatton will check into a rehab clinic this week after tearfully confessing to a year-long cocaine addiction.
The former boxing world champ was caught on camera snorting “industrial” amounts of cocaine during a sordid drink-and-drugs binge a fortnight ago.
Hatton admitted being hooked on the Class A drug in an emotional heart-to-heart with fiancée Jennifer Dooley yesterday.She was horrified to discover Hatton, 31, had seven lines of cocaine during a night out in Manchester.
The bloated ex-boxer then admitted he had been taking the drug for almost a year – beginning shortly after his last fight, when he was knocked out in two rounds by Filipino boxer Manny Pacquiao.
Hatton was caught on film taking out a wrap of cocaine hidden in his shoe before chopping up lines with a credit card in a hotel room.
He then expertly snorted the drug through a rolled up £20 note.
In addition to the seven lines of cocaine that night, he drank 11 pints of Guinness, four vodkas, two glasses of wine and several sambuccas.
But a source close to the retired fighter, who became a national hero as world light-welterweight king, said: “He’s now vowed to get himself clean. He’ll go into a rehab clinic very soon and he has the support of Jen and the rest of his family.”
The source revealed Hatton – nicknamed The Hitman during his career – had struggled to cope with life outside the ring.
“He is very down – devastated, in fact,” the friend said. “He had a tearful talk with Jennifer and held his hands up. This has been coming for some time and everyone around him is hoping it’s a wake-up call.
“Ricky is disgusted with himself. He feels he has let himself, his family, his friends and his fans down.
“He has struggled to cope since giving up the fighting. He went from world champion to a retired ex-pro and it is hard for him.
“A few people around Ricky have been concerned for a while.”
Friends were also shocked to learn “anti-drugs” Hatton, who was awarded an MBE, was on cocaine.
One said: “He was always adamant he would never touch the stuff.”
And pal Emma Bowe, who witnessed him snorting cocaine, said: “If he carries on, he’ll kill himself. I’m really, really worried for him. If he tries to make a comeback in the ring, as he’s hinted, he could have a heart attack. “To see him abusing drugs was such a let-down. He was a role model.”
Yesterday, it also emerged Hatton was floored in a pub after a row over a fruit machine queue.
A bodybuilder twice his size accused him of pushing in and sent him sprawling across tables at the Railway Inn in Hyde, Manchester.
During the tail-end of his career, Hatton was known to balloon in weight between fights and revelled in the nickname Ricky “Fatton”.
During a four-day booze binge after his defeat by American Floyd Mayweather Jnr in 2007, the first of just two career losses, he downed 57 pints, 17 vodka and Red Bulls, four vodkas, three whisky chasers and a bottle of champagne.
Earlier this year, fellow boxer Joe Calzaghe also confessed to taking cocaine after retiring from the ring.
Source: mirror.co.uk
Ban Hatton from boxing - The Sun
By PAUL JIGGINS, The Sun
FRANK WARREN wants drug-shame star Ricky Hatton banned from boxing until he cleans up his act.
The Hitman's career is in crisis after he was caught snorting several lines of cocaine during a bender in Manchester.
SunSport columnist Warren, who used to promote Hatton, said: "His actions are bad for his and boxing's image."
Former world champion Hatton renewed his fight licence with the British Boxing Board of Control in June and is also a licensed promoter.
But Warren believes the fight legend should not now be allowed anywhere near a ring or gym until he has got help to conquer his demons.
Warren added: "The Board of Control need to show their mettle and ban him until he sorts himself out.
"Ricky obviously needs help and I hope for his sake he gets it. He has brought the sport into disrepute and must not be allowed to fight or promote again until he can show he is clean.
"How can he go into a gym and guide a young fighter when he can't even guide himself properly?
"Ricky remains a role model to loads of promising young fighters. If the Board of Control don't take action it will send out a message you can take drugs and still have a career in the sport."
Our sister paper, the News of the World, reported yesterday Hatton used 'industrial quantities' of cocaine on a night out with a pal.
Hatton's spokesman, Max Clifford, said last night: "He feels he has let everybody that matters down badly - his friends, family, fans and, of course, most of all himself.
"In his own words, he's been in a bad place for some time, probably even before his last fight. He's really upset."
Hatton has not fought since he was KO'd by Manny Pacquiao last May.
Source: thesun.co.uk
FRANK WARREN wants drug-shame star Ricky Hatton banned from boxing until he cleans up his act.
The Hitman's career is in crisis after he was caught snorting several lines of cocaine during a bender in Manchester.
SunSport columnist Warren, who used to promote Hatton, said: "His actions are bad for his and boxing's image." Former world champion Hatton renewed his fight licence with the British Boxing Board of Control in June and is also a licensed promoter.
But Warren believes the fight legend should not now be allowed anywhere near a ring or gym until he has got help to conquer his demons.
Warren added: "The Board of Control need to show their mettle and ban him until he sorts himself out.
"Ricky obviously needs help and I hope for his sake he gets it. He has brought the sport into disrepute and must not be allowed to fight or promote again until he can show he is clean.
"How can he go into a gym and guide a young fighter when he can't even guide himself properly?
"Ricky remains a role model to loads of promising young fighters. If the Board of Control don't take action it will send out a message you can take drugs and still have a career in the sport."
Our sister paper, the News of the World, reported yesterday Hatton used 'industrial quantities' of cocaine on a night out with a pal.
Hatton's spokesman, Max Clifford, said last night: "He feels he has let everybody that matters down badly - his friends, family, fans and, of course, most of all himself.
"In his own words, he's been in a bad place for some time, probably even before his last fight. He's really upset."
Hatton has not fought since he was KO'd by Manny Pacquiao last May.
Source: thesun.co.uk
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