HATTON GIVEN EDGE OVER JOSE www.skysports.com
Wednesday 30th May 2007

Boxing 'Golden Boy' Enrique Colin Reyes believes Ricky Hatton has what it takes to beat Jose Luis Castillo when the pair meet in June.

Hatton and Castillo face one another in Las Vegas on June 23 in a much anticipated fight between two of the best pound-for-pound fighters in boxing, and Reyes gives The Hitman the edge.

Castillo, known for his aggressive style and a record of 55 wins, including 47 knock-outs, seven loses and one draw, is expected to offer Hatton one of his toughest fights to date.

But Reyes, who boxes under Oscar De La Hoya's Golden Boy promotion, has been sparring with Hatton in Manchester ahead of the fight and he feels the Mancunian has the attributes to win.

Reyes, who has a professional record of 29 wins and 3 loses, is better placed than most to offer an opinion as the Mexican also trains with Castillo in the Creea Gymnasio in Tijuana.

"Hatton is very, very, strong. I have been a professional fighter for eight years, and I have never sparred with someone as strong as him," Reyes told The Daily Telegraph.

"The way Hatton comes forward makes him a monster. I would give him the edge over Castillo in this fight.

"Hatton is a real Machista fighter, who is much stronger physically than Castillo, who has all the shots, and can box more.

"The styles mean it will be a great fight. We already refer to Hatton as 'the White Mexican' and he fights with the heart of a Mexican Warrior," Reyes added.

Hatton has been pushing himself through some of the most effective training of his career ahead of the bout as he looks to wow a large Mexican boxing fan base.

The IBF light-welterweight champion, unbeaten in 42 fights, will be keen to impress after regaining his title in stuttering style against Juan Urango in January.