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Ricky Hatton presented the game plan and executed it with precision. My prediction coming true, was based more on the determination of Hatton, more than his experience. Even though his fight record holds an overwhelming amount of nameless opponents, this small feat is not one to judge the |
ambition and fortitude of a boxer. I offer a round of applause to Kostya Tszyu for training hard, traveling to his opponent’s homeland, and accepting the challenge. Tszyu’s loss will not delete my personal opinion of him being a strong and lasting champion. Yet, you have to hand Hatton a plate of respect for defying the odds and doing it in textbook boxing fashion. Hatton used the game plan Sharmba Mitchell wanted to use. I have always believed that Mitchell fought with his emotions, thus catching heavy shots from Tszyu and ending the fight by being stopped in dramatic fashion. Hatton made reference towards the Mitchell fight and had very clear observations on Tszyu’s stamina. We are very fond of Tszyu’s power in the early rounds, but his power in the later rounds was always a question unanswered. Hatton has done more than win a world title and recognition as being the top junior welterweight, the man changed the whole outlook of future matches.
World champion Zab Judah and rising star Miguel Cotto both have Tszyu’s experience and power being the measuring stick, which would be the end of Hatton. Now, what do these boxers think? Judah is excited and willing to fight anybody of substance, Floyd Mayweather has an upset to prevent with his next fight against Arturo Gatti, and Cotto has a tough fight ahead with Mohamad Abdulaev. June is a heavy month for the junior welterweights and welterweights.
Hatton is in the midst of making some major moves and major cash. He is worldwide now; we know that Hatton can box and hit. Hatton’s win over Tszyu was the product of a strenuous load of punching pressure, both physically and mentally. I am sure the self- confidence of those the talented junior welterweight division will see a future fight with Hatton as not being a huge problem and I beg to differ.
Hatton’s hard-earned win over a world-class champion should push his respect and recognition to a high level. The same would rightly have happened if Tszyu came out the winner. Hatton should earn a spot in the top-ten pound-for-pound list. Also, he should be granted time to rest and the allowance to decide his next opponent. However, this is all wishful thinking, as some people will still proclaim Hatton’s victory as lucky or good timing.
Whatever the case, Hatton, you earned this day and enjoy it with outstanding celebration. Along with England, make sure you get some rest. America appreciated this spectacular world championship boxing contest.
Shaun Rico LaWhorn can be reached at filmmaking_mentality@msn.com
