By James Blears
Legendary US boxing promoter Bob Arum’s message to Ricky Hatton is brief but heartfelt. Asked if Ricky should continue his ring career, after the knockout by Manny Pacquiao, Mr. Arum replied to BoxingScene.com: “It’s not for me to say/ If he was my son, I would say no!”
Mr. Arum, who’s the founder of Top Rank, has been in Mexico City with Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones, to promote the upcoming March 13th fight between Manny Pacquiao and Joshua Clottey, in the Dallas Cowboys Stadium.
Todd duBoef, who’s the President of Top Rank, said Roberto Duran successfully continued his career after being KO’d by Tommy Hearns in two rounds. But he also pointed out that Ricky has twice been badly knocked out in bouts against Floyd Mayweather Jr. and Manny Pacquiao.
Todd added: “Ricky’s an entertaining fighter and terrific for boxing,” but he also added: “Obviously Ricky’s priority should be his health and safety.”
Ricky insists he wants just one more fight against a world class opponent. Todd commented: “One more time. It’s like the club song. Everyone wants one more, so we don’t necessarily know what one more means. But I wish him the best and if his career keeps going forward terrific, and if he chooses to hang it up, Ricky’s been a great for the sport.”
