The Empire Casino in London, promoter Frank Maloney officially announced Ricky Hatton's next fight, an IBO defense against ex-world title challenger Juan Lazcano at City of Manchester Stadium in Manchester, England on May 24, 2008.
Maloney also unveiled a Commonwealth welterweight title clash between reigning champion Craig Watson and challenger Matthew Hatton, younger brother of "The Hitman" as well as IBF Light Welter Champion Paulie Malignaggi defending his crown against former titlist Lovemore N'dou in a rematch.
Ricky Hatton declared the event would be a family occasion occurring between 6 and 11PM as a thank you to the many thousands of fans that have supported him in both the UK and America. With 51,000 tickets already being sold for the May 24 date, only 4,000 seats remain at City of Manchester Stadium.
On hand were Ray Hatton of Punch Promotions and Richard Schaefer of Golden Boy Promotions, co-promoters with Maloney of the Hatton vs. Lazcano bill.
Also announced at the conference was Ricky Hatton's intention to face Floyd Mayweather again next spring, this time in England, following Hatton's only career loss which occurred against Mayweather in Las Vegas last December.
But first Hatton must come through not only the Lazcano bout but also a proposed clash with Malignaggi should the New Yorker turn away the rugged N'dou. For his part, Mayweather must see off his other conquest of 2007, Oscar de la Hoya, again before a Hatton match can be made a reality.
If these hurdles can be cleared, Maloney sees no problem selling out the 100,000 seat Wembley Stadium in London.
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