If Hatton had not blown up in weight between fights...

[blegit]

This is a very good topic that needs addressed. I think people who think it didn't matter are only looking at his success. No one is perfect but anybody who is human can always be better at something they do. The goal is to minimize that gap. Hatton was/is a good boxer who was great for how he treated his body. Actually, Hatton did exceptionally well considering the lengthy period of time he would blow up to the 170s in between fights. No trainer would want to or allow their fighter do this for more than once or twice a career. 30 something pounds for a small guy to drop is asking for danger. BHop is a very good example of what usually happens when a fighter absolutely takes care of himself in between fights. Hopkins doesn't drink, party, let his weight get up there, or break from the gym for more than a week. Hatton probably would've lost to both Pac and PBF because of technical flaws but he would've gave both, especially PBF, more trouble and been more durable. Even though it seems obvious it should be said. Hatton would've been a significantly better equipped fighter had he took better care of his body.

And yet everyone agree's he would have still lost to Floyd and Pac. So living as a fat pisshead outside the ring didn't harm his career in the slightest.

What about the mental side? Some people may benefit from being able to totally seperate themselves from the sport and then give it 100% focus when needed?

Yeah, as far as wins and losses I don't think he would have a different career. But I did say probably would've lost to Pac and PBF. Because against PBF I think we may have seen a close decision. Its difficult to predict. Were just guessing using what we know is good and bad. Hatton lost to 2 world beaters and I just don't think even the best Ricky Hatton would've beat either one of them because you still have to correct his glaring technical flaws. Had Hatton had another notch to step up we may have seen PBF step it up one or two more also. You have to push PBF to see his best he doesn't push the envelope himself very well anymore. Though the PBF fight would've been more interesting.