Fight fans the world over went through a nail-biting time just recently, what with the much looked forward to Manny Pacquiao-Ricky Hatton fight looking like it might not happen after all due to the much publicised purse arguments. But now, thankfully, it seems we can all rest easy and look ahead to the potential super-fight, back on as it is for its original May 2nd date..
Perceived favourite in the bout and reigning pound-for-pound king Pacquiao has wasted no time whatsoever in launching his first pre-fight verbal attack - referring in a Manila Bulletin article to Hatton as being a "one-dimensional" fighter, and one "who comes right straight at you.". Of course, this is not the first time this type of accusation has been levelled at "The Hitman," and "Pac-Man" will not be the last boxer to say it. But for anyone who was paying attention in Hatton's last fight, when he took care of the speedy (albeit not too hard hitting) Paulie Malignaggi, it was clear Hatton is no such thing. Once again, the 30-year-old Manchester man proved it is hazardous for anyone to underestimate his boxing skills.
Hatton is a fighter who enjoys coming forward and making a real fight of it, yes, but he is far from a limited slugger. Ricky is adept at cutting the ring off on his foe, making him fight his kind of inside fight, and he knows how to pace himself better than ever now. If the Filipino - who is without question the best fighter Hatton will have faced this side of the retired Floyd Mayweather Junior - really believes what he's been saying, he could be in for a nasty shock.
The southpaw's famous trainer, Freddie Roach, also stated how he feels Hatton's style of fighting is a straight ahead one, and that this will suit his fighter well - but he also added how tough a rival Hatton will be on May 2nd.
"His [Hatton] style of coming forward each time is just perfect for Manny," Roach said, before adding that, "Hatton's a very good body puncher and is very dangerous. Hatton likes to go to the body and the key for Manny is his [own] footwork. Manny should stay away from the ropes when he fights Hatton."
Without a doubt, Pacquiao will be looking to dictate the pace of the fight and keep the action in the middle of the ring while avoid being trapped on the ropes. But will the naturally smaller man be able to do so? Sure, Pacquiao looked great a weight class higher than the one he will be fighting in in May, when he shocked Oscar De La Hoya at 147. But when we consider how weight-weakened Oscar was back in December, the question of whether or not Manny has faced a real test in the form of a bigger man has to be asked.
Hatton, as fiercely strong as he is at 140-pounds, might just prove to be the boss when it comes to physical strength when the two superstars meet.
Source: eastsideboxing.com
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