Ricky Hatton in vow to his fans

By Derick Allsop 13/04/2008

Ricky Hatton insists he's still got what it takes to be the best pound-for-pound boxer in the world.

The 29-year-old Mancunian has lined up a revenge fight against Floyd Mayweather Jnr but must prove he can bounce back from his first defeat when he meets Juan Lazcano at the City of Manchester Stadium next month.

Hatton's critics believe he will never be the same after that devastating blow in Las Vegas and even his trainer, Billy Graham, admits no one knows whether the "Hitman" can get back to his best until he returns to the ring.

But Hatton is adamant he has lost none of his ability or desire.

"I wouldn't be fighting any longer if I had any fears about that," he said. "I've absolutely no doubts I've still got it and everybody will see that for themselves when I get into the ring to fight Lazcano."

Hatton has long planned a "homecoming" show to thank his hordes of loyal supporters for their backing and is especially determined to turn on the style for a 55,000 crowd after being stopped by Mayweather.

He said: "I always wanted to box back in England as a way of showing my appreciation to the fans, who forked out a lot of money following me to fights in America.

"And of course it will be a dream come true for me when I actually fight at City's ground, in front of a massive crowd like that.

"But I particularly want to put on a good performance for them now because of what happened in the Mayweather fight. They'll see the real Ricky Hatton on May 24."