Quote Originally Posted by littlebif
Fought Hatton wanted the big names at 147 or at 140lb.I agree its a step backwards!
It's a mandatory. He's just had 3 fights for 3 different world titles, it's only fair he has to make at least one obligatory defense.

Personally I think it's good that there are sanctions to enforce champions defend against their mandatories. Ok so it may seem like a temporary step back for Hatton but to just dismiss mandatory title defenses devalues the belts and ultimately the sport.

Plus Ricky deserves a slightly easier ride after 3 hard fights.