Hatton: "I don't see a versatile fighter in Pacquiao"

The Hitman full of confidence going into his May 2 fight with Manny Pacquiao.

During a conference call earlier today with the media, Ricky Hatton demonstrated supreme confidence in his abilities to beat Manny Pacquiao when the two meet in less than two weeks in Las Vegas.

"I don't see a versatile fighter in Pacquiao," said Hatton. Ricky explained that Manny throws one-twos while jumping in and out - something that his team feels is too predictable. The Hitman also talked about seeing Pacquiao leaving himself wide open when he misses with the left hand - something he hopes to exploit on May 2.

The junior welterweight champ is currently finishing up his training camp and he told us that tomorrow afternoon will be the last day for sparring before letting his body regroup during the final week of the fight. He noted that he didn't want to make the same mistakes as De La Hoya did in terms of overtraining for the fight which he believes left Oscar depleted and weak. Even though Pacquiao has already fought at 147, Hatton feels that Manny still hasn't faced someone as physically strong as him. He also feels that his speed is underrated. "Most expected Malignaggi (who has fast hands) to outspeed me, but it was actually me who was faster," explained Hatton.

The Hitman also reiterated that he knows it's going to be a tough fight and one that will push both fighters. "I expect it to be a very explosive fight," he proclaimed. "But if he engages with me, he'll end up second best that night."

Though most didn't give him a chance when he fought then 140-pound champ Kostya Tszyu, Hatton pulled through in fine style - something he plans on doing once again. Ricky reminded us that he was a bigger underdog in that fight and says that Pacquiao isn't as physically strong as Tszyu was. On the other hand, he acknowledged that a win against Pacquiao would certainly rank as the best of his career especially with the Pacman reigning as pound for pound king.

Source: http://www.411mania.com/sports/boxing/102619/Hatton:-%5C%5CI-don%5C%5Ct-see-a-versatile-fighter-in-Pacquiao%5C%5C.htm

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