Phil D. Jay
WBN Editor
WBN Editor
Returning ‘Hitman’ wants immediate ranking
Ricky Hatton will not face an older, faded opponent on his
return to the ring in November and wants to be ranked in the world’s top ten
with a victory when he makes his comeback at the MEN Arena.
The former two-weight world title holder had been linked to
clash with former IBF and IBO champion Lovemore Ndou in recent weeks, although
the 33 year-old dismissed a low-key bout as he climbs between the ropes for the
first time since 2009.
“There have been several names we have been talking about
and obviously over the next few days we will make our decision,” Hatton stated.
“I have come back to win world titles, so in order to put
myself in a position to win a world title – a lot of people have said it will
be a journeyman for my first one back, but I am not going to get ranked if a
fight a journeyman. I need a challenge.
“I think it will be an opponent that people will respect me
for choosing. The level of opponent and it’s an opponent that will get me
ranked. In getting me ranked, it puts me in a position for me to fulfil my
dreams, which is obviously having another belt round my waist.
“We will announce it in the immediate future,” he added.
WBA welterweight champion Paulie Malignaggi has already been
ear-marked for the title challenge and Hatton will now be expected to face
someone ranked in the top ten, or thereabouts, by that organisation.