By Mark Havey: Everybody has heard the story, Ricky ‘The Hitman’ Hatton has set the date of his comeback as November 24th. I can’t say this article is particularly original, nor will I say anything that hasn’t already been said. However I will give my take on it.

the start of Hatton’s career wasn’t to impressive. Most people just remember his glitzy nights in Las Vegas and his army of fans. But hardcore fans will remember the boxing magazines repeatedly claiming Ricky Hatton was an overrated boxer who never fought away from home. Every article seemed to push forward the image of a glorified pressure fighter that was capable of nothing else. But Rocky Marciano had proved many years before that aggression and a good chin was enough. after all Mexicans do very well on those two qualities.

2001 saw Hatton stop Tony Pep in 4 rounds to win the WBU light welterweight strap. Not many gave Hatton the acclaim they poured on other champions. The Hitman’s big night came in 2005 against the legendary Kostya Tszyu. Hatton was impressive and shocked the world. Tszyu was prevented from answering the bell for the 12th after his trainer threw in the towel. The judges had a score of 105-104, 106-103 and 107-102 all in Hatton’s favour.

After a few more big wins, Ricky Hatton had gained a legion of adoring fans willing to follow him around to would. The Hitman was certainly Britain’s most popular fighter and was living his dream. The dream was over in 2007 when he faced the brash Floyd Mayweather, a champion ranked in ring magazines pound 4 pound list. Hatton’s fans felt confident, so did I. Hatton came out strong and rushing forward, just like everyone expected. He could have fought anyway he wanted but Mayweather, ultimately was to good.

The 10th round stoppage didn’t seem to hurt Hatton too much. He even joked “I was doing fine until I slipped”. A few more wins later Hatton felt he could take on the hard hitting Manny Pacquiao. Due to styles the fight was always going to end quickly, and it did. Pacquiao brutally knocked Hatton out, leaving him unconscious for nearly 5 minutes. A downward spiral left Hatton unable to enjoy his success and retirement. This brings us up to date.

Let me just state that I am not a Hatton hater. The polar opposite is true. I was a huge fan and always had faith in Hatton in every fight. I even thought he would beat Pacquiao. Everything in my head pointed to a Pacquiao victory. But my admiration for Hatton blinded me. I have never let that happen since. So I was a true fan of Ricky Hatton’s. Does that mean I am looking forward to his comeback? Yes. Does that mean I think it’s a good idea? No. I’m am conflicted for certain. I loved watching Hatton and would again. But I don’t want to see him get hurt. And why the come back? If it was due to feeling he had more to give then fine. But I have a feeling there is more to it.

Hatton promotions was doing very well. Regular air time with an exclusive contract with Sky TV, it was a match made in heaven. But Sky didn’t renew the contract, instead they opted to sign Eddie Hearn. Mick Hennessey has channel 5, Frank Maloney and Frank Warren are putting shows on BoxNation. Hatton has been at serious risk of being shut out in the dark. Is this comeback a dangerous bid to save his promotional company. Whenever Hatton fights, he will have offers from every major television network. There will be a undercard which I’m sure will be stacked with boxers under the Hatton banner. I hope this is not the case. I hope Ricky feels he has it in him to win titles again. But being very mindful not to let my judgment be clouded again, I don’t think Hatton can win a world title. But I sincerely hope I am wrong.