“The Hitman” Takes Over Helm Of Hatton Group After Father Retires

Ricky Hatton has taken over from his father Ray as head of the Hatton group.

The former world light-welterweight and welterweight champion insists he can take the organisation from strength to strength after his dad’s decade at the helm.

Ricky, 32, who will oversee a mushrooming empire which includes a clothing brand, a private members gym and a TV network had also applied for his seconds and trainers licences.

The flagship company is his boxing outfit, Hatton Promotions which was recently named European Promoter of the Year and produced dozens of major champions in little more than two years.

Ricky revealed that his dad was fully behind his ambitious plans, and says: “I told my dad that I wanted to take over the company as this was something I wanted to do now that I have finally retired from boxing.

“It took a long time to make that retirement announcement, but when I did that in July I felt like a massive weight had been lifted and that I could look forward. Dad told me how proud he was and is confident that I will do a great job in his absence”.

Ray who recently celebrated his 60th birthday will now be able to spend more time with wife Carol in his deserved retirement.

Ricky added: “I am looking forward to seeing my dad relax now and enjoy his life. I cannot thank him enough for his invaluable guidance. I see this as the start of a new career, and I am well equipped to make the Hatton brand even bigger. Dad has worked so hard over the years he deserves to take life easier, put his feet up and spend more time with mum.”

Although Ricky’s problems have been well documented he’s battled back to full health and hopes to be working the corners of his talent stacked stable in the very near future.

He promised: “It won’t be long before you see me back in the ring, but talking words of wisdom to future world champions in the corner instead of fighting.

“If I am lucky enough to train a world champion it would give me as much pleasure as any of my great victories around the world.”

His fianc̩e Jennifer Dooley is due to give birth this week to the newest team Hatton member Рbaby daughter Millie.

Ricky who has a ten-year-old son Campbell from a previous relationship said: “My little lady is due any day and things could not be going any better right now.