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Mayweather-Hatton rematch 'very likely' for spring 2009

27/03/2008

A rematch between Floyd Mayweather and Ricky Hatton in the United Kingdom next year is "very likely", according to a leading promoter.

Richard Schaefer, the chief executive of Golden Boy promotions, has revealed discussions are already underway to lure the American across the Atlantic for a rematch with the popular Mancunian at Wembley Stadium.

"It's very likely that Floyd will come over next spring," Schaefer claimed.

"Floyd and his manager Al Hayman are very serious about it."

Mayweather handed Hatton his first ever professional defeat in the original meeting of the two men at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas last December.

The American - nicknamed 'Money' - has already lined up a bout with rival Oscar de la Hoya in September this year, and the Briton faces Mexico's Juan Lazcano on May 24th at the City of Manchester Stadium.

Both men, particularly Hatton - who claimed after the first fight that he felt referee Joe Cortez contributed to his defeat, have previously spoken of their desire for a rematch.

And although many pundits have cast doubt on its viability, the latest comments from Schaefer suggest the proposition is a genuine one.

"The first fight was great and, while Floyd would have to get past Oscar first, he knows that Ricky has talked about the referee," Schaefer revealed.

"He wants to show that he will repeat what happened the first time. That's his motivation.

"Floyd realises that Hatton is the most beloved fighter in the world and for him to come over to Wembley Stadium is making history.

"For Ricky it's about challenges and it's the same for Floyd. Fighting in front of 100,000 fans would be huge motivation for Floyd."