Graham wants Hatton retirement - Sport in brief - Evening Standard
       

Graham wants Hatton retirement

Ricky Hatton's trainer Billy Graham says nothing would please him more than if his fighter uses the after-glow of victory over Floyd Mayweather on Saturday night to announce his retirement from the sport.

Hatton's mother Carol has already revealed this week that her son has agreed a retirement pact which will see the 28-year-old call time on his career within the next two years.

And Graham said: "When he beats Floyd his ego should be satisfied. If you have enough money why risk everything? It's a big ask for Ricky to walk away but I'd be happy if he retired."

He added: "The last thing I want for any of my fighters is longevity. Longevity in boxing hurts for no reason. I don't want Ricky to fight on for too much longer."

Graham has made no secret of his admiration for Mayweather's talents, if not his public image, but has never doubted that Hatton has what it takes to inflict his first defeat.

Graham added: "I think Floyd is an absolutely fantastic fighter. Defensively, he's breathtaking. His hands are unbelievably fast. He's a great fighter.

"There's no argument to say he shouldn't be regarded as the best pound for pound fighter on the planet. He's extremely gifted but that's why we want the fight. Ricky Hatton will beat him."

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