Hatton Urges Haye To Continue Boxing

Former two weight world champion Ricky Hatton has called for David Haye to continue boxing and rebuild his career in the USA before re-challenging the Klitschko brothers.

Prior to losing his WBA heavyweight crown to Wladimir Klitschko via a clear and unanimous point decision last weekend Haye was adamant he was retiring from the sport on his 31st birthday in October. Despite suffering such an embarrassing one sided defeat and failing to live up to his pre fight hype Hatton still believes Haye has something to offer the heavyweight division.

Speaking to Sky Sports News, Hatton said: "The decision is his but I think retirement is a bit too early for him. I think he should give it a couple more fights. He still has a lot to offer."

Haye’s US promoter Golden Boy Promotions chief executive Richard Schaefer has already suggested that Haye should rebuild his career in America and Hatton has echoed that suggestion.

"It would be nice for David Haye to see the Hayemaker’s name up in lights in Las Vegas like I had,” said Hatton. “He’s not had the chance to do that yet,"

"It would be nice for him to go to America, re-establish himself over there and come back and get a rematch over here with Wladimir or fight Vitali. He is still the most exciting heavyweight in the division. I am proud to call him a friend and I think if he does come back we will get right behind him."

July 8, 2011