By Mark Vester
Ricky Hatton has left rehab after entering Priory, which is a well-known facility that deals with substance abuse.
Younger brother and European welterweight champion, Matthew Hatton, says the only way his brother will defeat his demons is to mentally recover from last year's brutal knockout at the hands of Manny Pacquiao.
Pacquiao knocked him out cold in two rounds in May 2009. Folowing the KO loss, Hatton fell into a deep depression and began a quick road to alcohol and cocaine abuse.
“He was very upset after the Pacquiao fight and never came to terms with it. Now he is doing that and hopefully starting a better period of his life," Matthew told the Manchester Evening News.
"Part of me wanted him to fight again because I know what it is like to be a fighter and the pride you have. I wanted him to fight again so he could end his career on a better night. It would help ease the pain."
At this point, Matthew is pretty sure that his brother will never fight again.
“I’m pretty sure now that he’s not going to fight again and he doesn’t need to because he’s had a fantastic career.
“He’s been a multiple world champion and is one of the best fighters this country has ever produced.
“As long as he can put the Pacquiao defeat behind him without fighting again, I am sure he can enjoy his retirement. I’ve spoken to him and I’m confident he can do that.”
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