The hotly anticipated title bout between Ricky Hatton and Manny Pacquiao on Sunday has captured the imagination of the boxing public for its intriguing uncertainties as much its high quality.
Connoisseurs of the sport cannot wait to find out whether Hatton's raw power can overcome Pacquiao's lightning speed when the Briton defends his IBO light-welterweight belt.
While Filipino southpaw Pacquiao is widely regarded as the best pound-for-pound fighter in the world, he has never competed in the 140-pound division where Hatton is the undisputed king.
"I respect Manny for his skills and power but I think he should be a bit more worried about my power," Hatton said in the build-up to the showdown at the MGM Grand Hotel.
"He's had one fight about 135 pounds and that was against Oscar (De La Hoya). He's a southpaw, he's got his hand speed and his footwork so I'm aware of the dangers.
"But he should certainly be worried about my power. Manny has won world titles in different weight divisions but down there."
Hatton, 45-1 (32 KOs), has relished his billing as the underdog, with Las Vegas bookmakers and most boxing pundits having long installed Pacquiao as favourite to win the 12-round contest.
"I think you have all made your mind up already," the 30-year-old told reporters.
"I have been reading what you have been saying and what everyone has been saying. That doesn't scare me. I have been the underdog before.
"I hear what you say: 'He is an over-hyped, over-protected, fat beer-drinking Englishman'. Guess what..... that 'he' is going to shock the world again."
Pacquiao, who outclassed 10 times world champion De La Hoya in December to confirm his reputation as the sport's best pound-for-pound fighter, has mutual respect for Hatton.
"He's a strong fighter, a good fighter and he's quick," said Pacquiao, who is also 30 and has the nickname 'Pac-man'.
0 comments:
Post a Comment