Malignaggi: Hatton won’t want to go out on his back like that

Phil D. Jay
WBN Editor

‘Magic Man’ talks up possible rematch

WBA welterweight champion Paulie Malignaggi is continuing talk of a possible second fight with retired former two-weight title-holder Ricky Hatton as ‘no comment’ comes back from the Mancunian’s camp on comeback rumours.

The 31 year-old, who regained the world title in April this year, is offering to make a first defence against Hatton, 33, this year if the boxer-turned trainer and promoter is serious about lacing up the gloves after three years away.

Hatton last fought when blasted out by an awesome Manny Pacquiao in 2009 at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas and Malignaggi believes the ‘Hitman’ needs to erase the memory of that night with at least one more fight.

“I think it bothers Ricky because he is such a big competitor and he was such a great champion,” Maglinaggi told BBC Radio Five Live.

“To go out the way he lost in the Pacquiao fight, I think it would bother any great competitor.

“It’s always hard to go out like that. When you look back at your career and you had such a great career, to go out on your back like that - I think it bothers him and I know it would bother me.

“Maybe people say; ‘Well, you should stay retired because of your legacy,’ but I think he feels the timing is right.”

Talk has been rife for days that Hatton is back in the gym and looking to get back to a fighting weight. At this stage there has been no comment from anyone associated with the Hyde fighter, although one way or another something should be heard soon to end the speculation.

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