By Phil D. Jay
Former two-weight world champion Ricky Hatton is expected to put an end to rumors of potential comeback to boxing in the next few days, according to James Robson of the Manchester Evening News.
Hatton, 33, has not fought since a devastating knockout loss to Manny Pacquiao in 2009 and has fuelled speculation that he will don the gloves once again by hitting the gym and shedding a substantial amount of weight.
The fighter-turned promoter has been linked to an October world title challenge against former foe Paulie Malignaggi at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn, New York, although rumours suggest a fight closer to home would be first of the agenda.
A bout at the MEN Arena, where Hatton fought his defining fight against Kostya Tszyu in 2005, could have already been booked in for October or November if the rumors are true as the likeable Mancunian potentially tests the water with fans in the UK.
A comeback by Hatton would no doubt sell-out in minutes, although there are some fans that would prefer he stayed retired after what was a bad defeat to Pacquiao. It has been suggested that erasing the loss from memory is a major part of any potential return and Ricky's army of supporters could once again be cheering him on in his hometown.
Phil D. Jay covers boxing for worldboxingnews.net