By Edward Chaykovsky
Former two division world champion Ricky Hatton has a ton of respect for the in-ring abilities and natural talent of Floyd Mayweather Jr. (48-0, 26KOs). Hatton, who at the time was an undefeated mega-star in the UK, was knocked out by Mayweather in ten rounds in 2009.
According to Mayweather, he plans to have his final career fight on September 12th.
How will people remember Mayweather when he finally walks away?
Hatton says the general public, and fans of the sport, will remember him for his exceptional ability and his personality. But they won't remember him for being an exciting fighter and someone who put in his all to please the fans.
"He is a superstar in an era of very few superstars. Floyd will be remembered for his brilliance between the ropes and for being a colorful character outside of the ring, but not for the excitement he provided," said Hatton to BBC Sport.
"Mayweather is not bothered about pleasing the crowd, he's bothered about doing what he does and getting paid. He doesn't have you on the edge of your seat, let's put it that way."
"As a boxer, I sit there and watch his ability and think, 'wow, look at his movement, that's unbelievable.' But a non-boxing person will probably be sitting there thinking, 'I've paid all this money, what the hell am I watching?!'"