Ray Hatton: "Hatton vs. Rees Won't Happen"

By Mark Vester

As we reported several days ago, the Daily Mail revealed negotiations were taking place for a possible bout between the comebacking Ricky Hatton (43-1, 31KOs) and WBA junior welterweight champion Gavin Rees (27-0, 13KOs) of Wales. Hatton's return is slated for May 24 in Manchester.

Ray Hatton, manager and father of Ricky, told BBC Sport his son will not be fighting Rees because of a breakdown in negotiations. No further details were revealed, but Rees is backed by Hatton's former promoter, Frank Warren, and most felt the negotiations process for the fight would be difficult.

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Saturday | Jan 31, 2026

"The prospect of a fight with Rees was put to us but the terms were not right and it won't be taking place," said Ray Hatton. "We have a long list of would-be opponents and a long list of venues. Ricky has said his next fight will be in Britain as a thank you to his fans who have been travelling across the Atlantic."

Send News Tips and Comments To Mark Vester @ boxingscene@hotmail.com

Shakur vs Teofimo, Why Winning as the Underdog Is a BIG Deal Paulie & Algieri Break Down BIG FIGHT

In this episode, Paulie Malignaggi and Chris Algieri break down why winning as the underdog in a fight like this is such a big deal — not just for rankings, but for momentum, perception, and long-term stardom.

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