By Peter Wells: After hearing sources on the internet I have just watched an interview on SkySports.com about Ricky Hatton’s future. Sources coming from Tenerife where Ricky Hatton is staying with friends he has been thinking whether or not he should retire. Ricky was said to be extremely upset about the realisation that he may be done with boxing. His mom and dad and girlfriend have been over to Tenerife to comfort Ricky and he’ll be heading home on Monday.

The reporter said that there should be an official announcement next week on his retirement. Ricky first realised that his career might be over after saying to friends that he just couldn’t get into training anymore. Unfortunately boxing is a sport that requires 110% dedication and when that motivation has gone then its over. Ricky has come to grips that he hasn’t got it in him to get down to weight anymore, and hasn’t got the desire to train hard for another fight.

I can’t say I blame Ricky and myself and thousands even millions more across the world will to. An idol from Manchester will be taking a step down, but he deserves all the support he’s gotten over the years. He’s the equivalent of God in Manchester and will always be remembered as the most celebrated boxer in the UK. His supporters followed him all the way to Las Vegas and now have to let Hatton get down to his own life. Ricky was the main reason I went into boxing, before then he was the only name I knew and I am pleasured to have such a great boxer and man in my country.

Hatton has done England proud and has become a star, but has never let money take him over, he’s still the same guy he was when he was fitting carpets with his dad. He was runner up in 2008’s sports personality of the year and has stared in many shows over the past few years. But for Ricky nothing beats some fish and chips, a lovely cold Guinness and a game of darts at the local pub. Boxing will still be a huge part in his life, he’s now a promoter and hopes to become a trainer and already works in his younger brother Matthew’s corner. Ricky is my idol and I will never forget what a fantastic career he’s had no matter what anyone says.