Hatton to 'attack, attack and attack again'
(by Zubair Ali)

On May 2nd, Ricky Hatton (45-1, 32 KO's) will defend his IBO light welterweight title against pound for pound king Manny Pacquiao (48-3-2, 36 KO's).

The two will lock horns in Las Vegas at the MGM Grand, the scene of Hatton's sole defeat to Floyd Mayweather Jr. In what is a mammoth task, Hatton's game plan is simple - attack. Both fighters have naturally aggressive styles, but Hatton believes Pacquiao will crumble under his constant onslaught.

“Attack, attack and attack again. If you beat the pound-for-pound number one that is a statement,” was the Mancunian's response when asked about his game plan. Hatton believes being the naturally bigger man could be decisive.

“We are both very aggressive and both like to go forward but ultimately my size and power will be a factor. But it is not just a power thing. I'm working on my speed. I think they see me as a slow fighter and they will get a shock on the night just how fast I can be”.

Hatton isn't ruling out an early night for “Pac Man”. “I'll be keeping the same ferocity I have always had and when he feels my strength I don't think Manny will stand about”.

Pacquiao sensationally stopped six weight world champion Oscar De La Hoya in eight rounds at the end of last year. De La Hoya was comprehensively beaten and out-boxed throughout the fight, but Hatton is warning Pacquiao not to expect the same dominance when the two meet.

“I think he will think he can out-box me like he did against Oscar De La Hoya. He might come and have a go early on but with the greatest respect I don't think it would have been hard to out-box Oscar that night. If Manny thinks he can do the same to me I think he will come unstuck”.

Hatton also stated he is delighted with the way his training is going.

“We are only halfway through the training camp, there are six weeks to go and I think a lot of fighters would be happy with my speed, sharpness and timing come fight night”, added the 30-year-old.

“I'm happy with the stage I am at but I just know my boxing ability, combination punches, jabbing and head movement is going to get so much better. I have a nice balance now and the fight can't come quick enough”.

Hatton went on to question Pacquiao's decision to enlist the services of Olympic silver medallist Amir Khan as a sparring partner.

“Amir has to think of his own career and if sparring with Manny improves him that is a good thing”, said Hatton. “But I will be putting pressure on Pacquiao and backing him to the ropes. Amir will be using his speed to move away. He (Pacquiao) is not fighting someone who is going to move away. Style-wise we are two completely different fighters and I can't see how that is going to benefit Manny in the slightest. I don't think that Amir, as fast as he is, is a good sparring partner”.

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