Sunday, December 9, 2007

Hatton Knocked Out in the 10th!

First of all, Referee Cortez was involved far too much in the fight tonight. I know you can't base the outcome of a fight on a referee, but I think it's safe to say he changed Hatton's game plan. Mayweather fights best in open ring situations, not up close or pushed into the corner. Cortez stopped most of the tight battles from ever taking place, having more to do in rounds 2-5  then both fighters! 

That being said, Mayweather out-punched Hatton throughout the entire fight. Ricky Hatton seemed to have rushed the fight and was looking to out brawl his opponent. Unfortunately Floyd Mayweather ducked or dodged 90 percent of every punch Hatton threw. Floyd came on strong in the 9th round landing accurate straight right hands to the face. As the 10th came to a close, Floyd landed a huge left hook that sent The Hitman to the floor. After an eight count, Hatton regained his balance and headed back toward Floyd, only to get hit by another 2 left hooks and stumble backward to the canvas. The ref called the fight at 2:59 into the 10th round. 

After the fight the Pretty Boy was quoted saying " I wont let boxing retire me, I'll retire from boxing. " Mentioning he wont be back for a 2008 or 2009 fight. To my surprise he gave credit to his foe and all of the UK fans for coming over to watch the fight, even after being booed by Hatton's fans all night. Now speaking of fans, Hatton obviously has the most loyal fans of any boxing professional... standing by his side before and after his loss. 

A good fight, slowed only by the referee, ended in a knock out. With the Filthy Rich Mayweather retaining his belt and remaining undefeated.