By Mark Vester
Welterweight Matthew Hatton is tired of reading about fighters who don't take chances. The younger brother of Ricky Hatton is ready to make a name for himself in the United States. Hatton told Daily Express that he's close to reaching an agreement to face unbeaten rising star Saul "Canelo" Alvarez on March 5 in Los Angeles.
“I get totally fed up reading about fighters who are always saying they will do this and that and then, when the chance comes along to make an impact and take on one of the big boys, they turn it down. I’ve never turned down a fight yet and, although I know full well how good Alvarez is, this is the right time for me," Hatton said.
After years of fighting in England and living under the shadow of his brother, he wants to show that he's just as good to the British fans. Hatton says the contracts are close to being signed and the fight might even be sanctioned as a WBA welterweight eliminator.
“I have proven myself at European level and now it is time to move up to world class. Alvarez is definitely world class, so I have to prove I belong there, too. I have changed completely as a fighter – I was very predictable. I always knew I had it in me but it is only now that I am really starting to develop.”
