Hatton receives De La Hoya backing

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De La Hoya, who was comprehensively beaten by pound-for-pound king Pacquiao in December, will co-promote the fight with Bob Arum's Top Rank after the deal was done last week.

De La Hoya, who had hoped to meet Hatton until he lost to Filipino Pacquiao, said: "This fight has all the makings of a 'Fight of the Year' candidate and I think Hatton will de-throne Pacquiao and become boxing's pound-for-pound king."

De La Hoya was also full of praise for the 'Pac-man', however.

"When Manny Pacquiao goes into the ring he fights for his country, the Philippines, and tens of thousands of Filipinos worldwide," added the Mexican-American legend.

"He is a tremendous athlete and unlike any other champion we have ever promoted. When Manny walks to the ring he carries the weight of his country on his shoulders and he fights with all of his heart, every second of every round."

Pacquiao said: "I always like new challenges which is the reason I am anxious to fight Ricky Hatton.

"My trainer Freddie Roach will put together a new game plan which will be much different than the one we used against Oscar.

"There are concerns because Hatton is a very strong puncher so I must deal with that in the ring. I promise I will be completely prepared and will do my best for all of my fans in the Philippines."