Hatton Apologises To Fans.

RICKY HATTON made a humble apology to his fans after being poleaxed by Manny Pacquiao.

The Hitman, battered senseless in the second round here, said: “I am desperately sorry for all my fans who came over and everyone who watched on TV. It’s really tough to take this defeat, very hard.”

Hatton had 1½ hours of hospital tests, including a brain scan, before being released with a clean bill of health. But he then skipped the post-fight party laid on for him.


Gareth Williams, head of Hatton’s promotional business, said: “He was in a sombre mood. I have never seen that side of Ricky before.

“He did go to a pool party but just sat in a cabana with his fiancee Jennifer and close family and friends. He had one beer and went to bed. He is very, very upset about the fight.”

Hatton had been bidding to become the world’s best pound-for-pound fighter in the IBO world light-welterweight showdown at the MGM Grand Garden Arena.

But the crushing nature of his defeat threatens any plans for a mega-fight homecoming and his career is now on the line.

Around 25,000 fans travelled from England to watch the action but saw their hero down twice in the first round before being brutally KO’d in the second by a swinging left.

Hatton added: “I didn’t see the punch coming. But it was a great shot. I congratulate Manny. He is a terrific fighter.”

Pacquiao said: “I think that was the hardest punch I have ever landed. I didn’t think it would be such an easy night. It was nothing personal, I was just doing my job. This was as big for me as my win over Oscar De La Hoya.”

Pacman’s trainer Freddie Roach said: “Manny is a monster.

“But Ricky fights the same way over and over again. I have watched all of his tapes for the past two months and know him like I know my own fighters.”

Hatton’s dad, Ray, revealed he will leave any decisions about possible retirement up to his son.

Hatton Snr said: “At this moment, he has probably got a few mixed feelings about it. But he’ll make that decision, whichever way he wants to, and the family will support him.”

Williams added: “It’s no shame losing to a fighter like that. Pacquiao is now the best pound-for-pound fighter in the world and possibly of all time.”

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