Ricky Hatton has responded the recent trend in the heavyweight division of big fights either falling through or being avoided entirely – and he believes it’s a step down from days gone by.
Despite being the money division in boxing, the heavyweight ranks continuously manage to frustrate fans with politics and purses getting in the way of the best bouts.
The most recent stark example, of course, it that of Tyson Fury facing Oleksandr Usyk to crown the first undisputed champion in two decades. The negotiations crashed amidst demands and deadlines, much like Fury’s last set of talks with domestic rival, Anthony Joshua.
Now without a dance partner for a summertime fight that he’s seemingly desperate for, Fury has announced that he’s revisited fighting ‘AJ.’ Fans have addressed the announcement with fatigue more than anything.
Asked by Boxing Social what he thought of the constant callouts and disappointments in the heavyweight division, Hatton – a two-weight world champion who was willing the step in with the likes of Floyd Mayweather and Manny Pacquiao – said that boxing was letting the fans down.
“I don’t know what to believe, but boxing has changed so much from back in the day. I really haven’t got an answer – I don’t know to be honest … The best need to be fighting the best.”
“Because the best aren’t fighting the best in boxing – especially in the heavyweight division – I think it’s damaging our sport. I think we’re getting left behind a little bit.
What happened to the days when you wanted to be the best in the world? Nowadays it’s just what numbers you get.”
“The game’s gone a bit fake for me.”
Specifically on the topic of Tyson Fury, Hatton said it would be ‘a crime’ if he didn’t fight Usyk and Joshua before hanging up the gloves, but does believe he will do what he can to make it happen.
“I know Tyson and I think before he retires he’ll want to fight the best.”
“I think it would be a crime if he didn’t fight Usyk or he didn’t fight AJ. One of the biggest fights in British boxing history if he fought AJ. I know he wants to get these fights done.”
Joshua has responded to Fury’s latest call out with scepticism, and not many fans believe the pair will be in the ring together this year.