By Rick Reeno
The stage is set for the anticipated homecoming of Ricky 'The Hitman' Hatton (43-1, 31 KOs). Last December against Floyd Mayweather Jr at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas, Hatton tasted defeat for the first time in his career after being outclassed for a better part of the first nine-rounds and finally stopped in the tenth after suffering two knockdowns. Judging by some of his recent interviews, the psychological scars from the loss have not gone away. He has a lot to get done in 2008, but talks up a Mayweather rematch, for 2009, at every turn.
The Manchester homecoming is likely his final ring appearance in the UK. He recently signed a three-fight deal with HBO, and picked up a powerhouse promoter in Golden Boy Promotions. The loss to Mayweather has done absolutely nothing to his superstar aura in England. His return takes place at the City of Manchester Stadium, where 55,000 Hatton fans have bought tickets to sell out the house.
Across the ring will be gritty challenger Juan Lazcano (37-4-1, 27 KOs) of Mexico, a huge underdog in the fight. A huge underdog who wants to be the spoiler in the worst way.
"I'm here in Manchester but have no fear of Ricky Hatton or his fans," said Lazcano. "I know I will 'WOW' the world on Saturday when I beat Ricky and take his belts from him!"
Thousands of loyal Manchester fans have traveled to the United States to support Hatton's fights over the last few years. He says the fight with Lazcano is a "thank you" to his massive loyal following.
"It's great to be back in action and it's an absolute dream come true to fight at the Manchester City Stadium against a fighter like Lazcano who comes to fight." said Hatton. "A fight like this can't fail to be a winner. Also, it's my way of thanking all of my loyal fans whether they are here in the stadium or watching live in the United States. I can't wait!"
On the undercard, IBF junior welterweight champion Paulie Malignaggi will defend the title against Lovemore Ndou in a rematch of their 2007 meeting. Malignaggi easily outboxed Ndou the first time around. The rematch should play out in the same fashion, and if it does, Malignaggi would become the frontrunner to fight Hatton in the fall.
"I am going to razzle and dazzle the 55,000 fans at the City of Manchester Stadium Saturday night and all those watching back in the States will remember why they love to see me fight," said Malignaggi. "It will be another dominating performance as I plan to outbox and outwork him just like the first fight!"
The VERSUS telecast will begin at a special time of 3:30pm ET/12:30pm PT. "Homecoming" is promoted by Punch Promotions in association with Golden Boy Promotions and Frank Maloney Promotions. Malignaggi vs. N'Dou is presented in association with DiBella Entertainment.
Round by Round Coverage begins at 3:30 PM Eastern Standard Time . Round by Round Coverage is for Registered Users only. Registration is 100% FREE . To register, please CLICK HERE.
Registered users can CLICK HERE to join the live Round by Round Coverage.