De La Hoya supports Hatton return, rules out potential clash

Phil D. Jay
WBN Editor

‘Golden Boy’ happily retired as ‘Hitman’ makes comeback

Oscar De La Hoya has wished Ricky Hatton all the best as the former two-weight world champion readies himself to announce his first fight in three years at the MEN Arena on November 24 tomorrow.

The ten-time world champion, who was strongly linked to a bout against the Mancunian last year, has announced that will not be temtped to follow Hatton back into the professional ranks as he approaches his 40th birthday.

“I wish Ricky all the luck in the world,” De La Hoya told The Daily Mail.

“He's still only 33 and who is to say he should not do this. I support him 100 per cent.

“I am in fighting shape, but I'm 39 and my body would not take it. Nothing will lure me back into the ring, not even the prospect of fighting Ricky.”

A slimmed-down Hatton has reportedly pencilled in a two-fight plan to challenge former foe Paulie Malignaggi for his WBA welterweight title in the summer of 2013 and is thought to be considering Lovemore Ndou for his comeback outing.

Ndou, 41, exclusively told WBN about his willingness to face Hatton before he was forced to put out of a scheduled contest in his native Australia and could well be one of a number of names shortlisted for the return of Britain’s most loved fighter.

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