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Fans Can’t Believe Ricky Hatton’s Hand Speed Compared To Barrera

Written by Boxing Social Staff on 10th November 2022.

Ricky Hatton and Barrera Pads

Ricky Hatton and Marco Antonio Barrera did a bit of work on the pads in Hatton’s gym ahead of their exhibition this weekend – and the two legends of the sport look ready to roll back the years.

2022 marks eleven years since Barrera officially hung up the gloves, and ten since Hatton did the same. That makes their open workouts even more impressive, as the two worked out in the ring ahead of their exhibition bout.

Whilst many fans thought Hatton looked the fresher, more determined, and faster fighter, his Mexican opponent clearly still has the muscle memory for a combination or two.

The event – taking place this Saturday at the AO Arena in Hatton’s beloved hometown – aims to showcase the skills and sportsmanship of boxing. In the lead up, the British legend has put a strong focus on mental and physical wellbeing, opening up about weight loss and how being in training has helped him not only feel fitter, but happier.

Having said that, it’s no walk in the park. Both men have promised that it will be competitive, and who knows what will happen when the punches start to land. Barrera had a 75-fight campaign, winning 67 of those and picking up world titles in three weight classes along the way. Whilst he lost to Amir Khan towards the end of his career, British fans will also remember him as being the only man to beat Prince Naseem Hamed.

Whilst it may be Hatton’s last dance, the door is now open to other exhibition bouts – and as we’ve seen with Floyd Mayweather, it’s easy to get a taste for it. In fact, ‘Money’ Mayweather is one of the names that has been mentioned for ‘The Hitman’s next outing, as well as a wildcard in Conor McGregor, although that is unlikely to materialise.

UK fans can watch the action this weekend on Sky Sports.