By Chris LaBate

British star Ricky Hatton is looking over the contract for his younger brother's potential fight with Saul "Canelo" Alvarez (35-0, 26KOs) on March 5 in Los Angeles, California. Matthew Hatton has received an offer to face the unbeaten Mexican star. Alvarez's promoter, Richard Schaefer of Golden Boy Promotions, told BoxingScene.com a few days ago that a deal was close.

"He (Alvarez) is Golden Boy's biggest star, they're talking about him as the next Oscar de la Hoya," Ricky told Ringside. "They've been in touch about Matthew and in typical Hatton style Matthew said 'yeah, definitely'! We've had a contract and in fact I was looking through it on the plane on the way to the studio here - and Matthew is dead keen."

Ricky told Matthew that a fight with Alvarez is a "win-win" situation because Matthew's European welterweight title will likely not be at stake. It gives Matthew exposure in the United States and the opportunity to make a good payday.

"He's an American opponent, so I'm hoping it won't affect his European title and he's dead keen to do it. Matthew's watched the tapes, he thinks he can beat him," Ricky said. "He's a wonderful talent this lad but it's a great opportunity; it's win-win for Matthew, there's no way he can lose, only good can come out of it. If that's what Matthew wants to do, he has my backing."