Boxing Preview Analysis: Ricky Hatton vs. Paulie Malignaggi

ByLee Bellfield


© Tom Hogan / Golden Boy Promotions

Tonight, Manchester hero Ricky Hatton returns to the ring where he suffered his sole defeat 11 months ago when he faces the brash American Paulie Malignaggi in Las Vegas.

At stake are bragging rights as the number one in the light welterweight division.

Both men have only one defeat,both at the very highest level. For Hatton, in the same MGM ring as he steps into on Saturday night, he was defeated by pound for pound number one Floyd Mayweather Jr in 10 rounds in an attempt to become a two time welterweight champion in December last year.

For Malignaggi, in June 2006 he was defeated by Puerto Rican Miguel Cotto over 12 rounds in a WBO Light Welterweight Championship bid.

For Hatton, this is his second fight since the defeat to Mayweather. In a homecoming fight in May of this year at the home of his beloved Manchester City FC, Hatton returned with a hard fought but clear win over Juan Lazcano.

On the same bill, Malignaggi looked far from impressive when taking a close decision win over old rival Lovermore N’Dou.

Since that May performance, there has been changes in the Hatton camp. Old trainer Billy Graham has been replaced by Floyd Mayweather Sr.

For Malignaggi, this is his big shot. Long has he spoken about wanting to get Hatton in the ring. Well, now he has his chance.

Much has been made about Hatton’s lifestyle in the past. In fact, it’s been spoken about before every fight and yes, it’s true that one day this could catch up with him.

That being said, Hatton seems to be in excellent condition for this Vegas matchup, but there’s always that nagging doubt in the back of my mind that Hatton’s lifestyle could eventually catch up with him.

Had this fight beein taking place in 2005, I would have staked everything on a Hatton victory, but now, I’m not as sure.

That being said, I think to beat Ricky, you need to have power which, unfortunately, Paulie doesnt have in abundance. I also think Hatton is just too good for Malignaggi.

I think Hatton has enough in the tank to come though this one either by late stoppage or points, but I say that with less confidence than I would have at the time of the Kostya Tszyu fight.