Ricky Hatton's Life
Ricky "The Hitman" Hatton was born on 6 October 1978 in Stockport.
Ricky Hatton started boxing at 10, but was originally a carpet fitter, before turning professional in 1997.
Ricky Hatton lives with his parents in Hyde and is a huge Manchester City fan, whom his father used to play for.
Trained by Billy Graham and formerly promoted by Frank Warren, Ricky Hatton became the IBF champion of the world in June 2005 when he defeated Russian-born Aussie, Kostya Tszyu in front of a home crowd at the MEN Arena in Manchester.
In spite of being the underdog in the fight against Tszyu, the Hatton camp were confident of victory.
Kerry Kayes, Ricky Hatton's dietician and nutritionist expert, commented on Hatton's website that: "Ricky has on his back what's known in the body-building world as a 'Christmas Tree'. It's the definition of muscles off the spine of his back, it's the first time they have ever been noticeable and testament to the hard work he has put in."
As at that fight Hatton had a record of 39-0 in the light welterweight division.
Billy Graham has said of Hatton: "Ricky's always telling jokes, but in the ring he's cold, merciless and an awful man."
Ricky Hatton is known for his close-quarters style and fierce body punching.
Ricky Hatton's official site has excellent stats, biographical information and more about the boxer.
In November 2005 Hatton unified the IBF title, which he already held, and the WBA light welterweight title with a ninth-round knockout of Carlos Maussa.
In May 2006, Ricky Hatton moved up a weight to defeat Luis Collazo on points and become the WBA welterweight champion.
Ricky Hatton was awarded an MBE in the New Year Honours announced on 30 December 2006.
In January 2007, Hatton regained his IBF light welterweight title after a difficult points win over Juan Urango.
In June 2007, the BBC reported:
"Scientists tried to measure the punching power of boxing world champion Ricky Hatton - but The Hitman's near half-ton punch broke the equipment."
Also in June 2007, Ricky Hatton beat Jose Luis Castillo with a convincing fourth-round knock-out. On the under-card, Ricky Hatton's brother Matthew beat Edwin Vazquez.
In December 2007, Ricky Hatton fought Floyd Mayweather.
Hatton put up a brave fight, but was stopped in round 10 by Mayweather.
Suggested other biographies: Amir Khan | Muhammad Ali