You are in > manchester.com  > News > Victorious Hatton admits he felt nervous before fight

Boxing

Victorious Hatton admits he felt nervous before fight

25/05/2008

Ricky Hatton has revealed he felt more nervous before his fight with Juan Lazcano than before any other bout in his career.

Hatton was making his first appearance since being knocked out by Floyd Mayweather in Las Vegas.

That loss was Hatton's first defeat in his professional career and the Manchester fighter admitted he had doubts about his own ability to comeback before the fight with Lazcano.

However, having won the bout comprehensively, The Hitman says his confidence has now been restored.

"I have to admit I've never been more nervous before a fight in my life," Hatton told Sky Sports after the fight.

"I felt great in the gym but it's different once you get in there. The fans pulled me through.

"All those demons are in your mind, like can you come back as strong? Tonight I've proved it and I think I'll be better now I've got the first one out of the way."

Hatton praised his Mexican opponent for his brave performance and said Lazcano had been as tough a prospect as he had imagined he would be.

Fighting in the same stadium where his beloved Manchester City play, Hatton admitted he had been a little too eager to please at points during the contest and caused himself difficulties.

He explained: "The minute I had him hurt with a few punches I tried to put my foot on the gas and sometimes landed myself in a bit of trouble."

Hatton is now likely to take on American IBF champion Paulie Malignaggi who beat Lovemore N'Dou last night.