The Panel - Sky Sports Expert

The big fight verdict

Posted: 06th December 2007 14:37

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It's the fight of the decade and in the build-up Sky Sports' boxing experts have been sharing their thoughts with us here on skysports.com.

We've asked them where this fight sits in the history of British boxing, we've asked them just how good Floyd Mayweather is and what effect fighting at 147lbs will have on Ricky Hatton.

We know where they think the Hitman can hold the upper hand and just what the Pretty Boy can do to keep that '0' in tact, but with fight night almost upon us it is time for a prediction.

Here, our former champions Jim Watt, Johnny Nelson, Glenn McCrory and Nicky Piper, as well as commentator Ian Darke and our reporters in the field, Adam Smith and Ed Robinson, all give you their take on Undefeated - and finally stick their necks on the line...

Jim Watt - Former lightweight world champion

If the Hatton plan doesn't involve getting hit by Floyd Mayweather I'd be surprised, shocked and worried. He will get hit on the way in, we know that. He knows that, Floyd knows that. It happened against Kostya Tszyu and it will happen here. But - and this is a big plus point in his favour - Mayweather is nothing like the puncher Tszyu was. Of course, his precision is better and there will be times when Hatton, as he tries to hit Mayweather, will get hit at the same time. He has to be prepared for those exchanges. We all know how good Mayweather is defensively and there's every chance he will make Hatton miss, but if he can't catch him cleanly, the bottom line is Ricky has to deliver more shots. He has to be aggressive but he cannot afford to be reckless. No matter how frustrated he might get and no matter how many times Mayweather makes him miss, he has to keep calm. He can't just keep running in throwing crazy punches, because Floyd will pick him off all night long. What I would suggest is that he fights in short, sharp bursts. He doesn't have to fight for every second of every round, just get in, let off a barrel-load of punches and get out - and then maybe do nothing for the next 10 seconds. But when he does go to work it can't just be a few shots, he has to let loose with six, seven even eight punches at a time and then settle back down again.
PREDICTION: My head says no, so I suppose I have to go with that, but my heart and my hopes say yes. You've got to side with the champion and his skills, but if anyone out there can beat Floyd Mayweather, it is Ricky. But he'll have to stop him.

Johnny Nelson - Former cruiserweight world champion

I have to stick with Mayweather. Everything indicates that Ricky can go in there and pull off the impossible, the unthinkable and unbelievable but I'm afraid I've got to listen to my head. And that tells me Floyd is far too sharp, far too accomplished, far too technical a fighter. In Ricky's favour, he has been in more situations, been hit, been cut, been hurt and been dropped, compared to Mayweather. But one word will decide this for me: welterweight. If this fight was at 140lbs I would have no hesitation and backing Ricky, simply because he is the best light-welterweight in the world. I know Mayweather is not the bigger man necessarily, but the issue for me is how Hatton does at the bigger weight. Against Luis Collazo, who is not outstanding never mind world-class, he struggled. I just don't think he will be as physically effective. Floyd has boxed at welter and above for the last two years and not only won, but won comfortably. Ricky will be the bigger puncher though. Speed does generate power and Floyd has that in abundance, but I can't see power being a decisive factor. Floyd will try and draw Ricky in and force him to make a mistake. He won't try and bully him and he won't stand and trade because for all the noise coming out of his camp, there is no way he has been under-estimating Hatton. There is no way he thinks he is a fat, one-dimensional, club fighter. If Ricky is going to win he has to answer every Mayweather shot and he has to answer it fast and furiously, with two or three-punch combinations. He is an excellent pressure fighter and he can take the pace away from the Pretty Boy, but if he lets him get in full flow this fight will drift further and further from his grasp. And that means Floyd will grow in confidence and when he does that, he can really start to show off.
PREDICTION: I am going to go for Floyd Mayweather on points and in doing so, I am letting my head rule my heart. Of course I would love to see Ricky do it, but if he does it will be by stoppage.

Glenn McCrory - Former cruiserweight world champion

At the start I was a little dubious that this may be a step too far for Ricky, particularly after his last move up to welterweight. But I think he under-estimated Luis Collazo and there's no way he will do that with Floyd Mayweather. He knows what he's taken on and is in the best shape of his life. He thinks he can win and he has that strength of mind because he has never lost before. Remember, after beating Oscar de la Hoya, Mayweather retired, so does he really have the heart for this if it turns into a real war? I do think there is going to be all sorts of drama: Floyd will be complaining about Ricky being rough and I can see this being a tetchy fight with plenty of needle. And I actually think that is what Hatton needs to stop Mayweather showing his style and finding his rhythm. He needs room to do that so Hatton can't afford to give him an inch; he has to get on the inside and hope he doesn't get caught on the way in. If Hatton can do what he did against Kostya Tszyu - and it takes a hell of a lot to keep him off - I am convinced he can grind Mayweather down. Floyd is not going to like what he sees come that first bell and I just think that, having spoken to him, Ricky's sense of purpose will see him home as much as anything else. And don't forget those bad hands of Mayweather. The way to keep a fighter off and at distance is to throw loads of punches and if he does that, those hands have to come into question. They could provide the drama that I am sure we are going to see.
PREDICTION: I am going for Hatton on points or a late stoppage. I just think that whatever happens, whoever wins, we are going to be in for one hell of a dramatic night.

Nicky Piper - Former Commonwealth light-heavy champion

As every day goes by I do fancy Hatton more and more, but I am going to have to go with Mayweather. Ricky is very fit, but I am not sure he is going to get to Floyd and enjoy any real success. He's such an exciting mover I just can't see how he is going to pin him down for long enough and I do worry that those fast feet and that terrific handspeed are going to be too much for Hatton. And this is nothing to do with any deficincies on Ricky's part: in Mayweather we are talking about far and away the best fighter in the world. He's so fit, so fast, moves so well and I do worry that this could turn out to be a nightmare for Ricky. If he boxes like he did against Kostya Tszyu and if he can get those bodyshots off, he might wear Mayweather down, but I just can't see him getting close enough for long enough to do any real damage. He will have go right at it and jump on him from the very first bell and go non-stop. On the positive side, Ricky is a much better boxer than many people give him credit for, as we saw against Ben Tackie, so Mayweather can't afford to under-estimate him. But at the end of the day - and I hate to say it - I think Hatton is going to be out-reached, out-boxed and out-manouevred.
PREDICTION: I am going for Mayweather on points, or if my worst fears are fulfilled, a late stoppage. The worry is Ricky won't even get close to him; I can see it happening, but I don't envisage it happening. Of course I would love nothing more than for Ricky to prove me wrong!

Ian Darke - Sky Sports commentator

Ricky Hatton looks as good as we've ever seen him working out here. He has got himself to maximum physical condition and psychologically is not at all fazed by the size of the task in hand. Believe me, he is primed to give a massive performance - whether that's good enough is what we're all here to find out. The interesting point I want to make and that Ricky can draw encouragement from, is that Mayweather seems to think he has already had his defining fight against Oscar de la Hoya and regards Hatton as a routine defence. His view is that he has fought pressure fighters before but what he hasn't taken on board is that Hatton applies a different kind of pressure. It's more intense, it's going to be much, much faster than anything he's faced, he won't just come straight in on tramlines, he will switch angles all the time. I do think Mayweather might be under-rating his skills. The big question is what damage does Hatton accrue on the way in? He's got to get on the inside but will he walk into too many shots doing that? Mayweather has had 38 fights, won five world titles and has very rarely had an uncomfortable moment, never mind round, or fight. He has been shaken by the odd shot, but that has been all too rare and we are kidding ourselves if we think there is a weakness to his armoury he hasn't shown.
PREDICTION - As a commentator I have to remain neutral, so I am not going to call this one way or the other. What I will say is that Hatton can win the fight by doing more, out-working Mayweather and throwing more leather to get rounds in the bank. But of course, it's easier said than done!

Adam Smith - Sky Sports commentator/reporter

I gave him an outside shot at first, now I give Ricky Hatton a much bigger chance. It's that unflappable nature, the burning desire, the seemingly endless supplies of ferocious aggression. And if he can use his jab to effectively set up attacks, his hopes raise, along with the tempo. Try those little screw shots up the middle too, Ricky. He is more ring savvy than opponents think and he can also be nasty, spiteful and a real handful. But don't for one minute think that Floyd Mayweather, the consummate professional, will have truly underestimated Hatton. This is Floyd Mayweather, best gym fighter I have ever seen, best ring craftsmen of his generation, and an outstanding five-weight world champion. But there's just a hunch in me somewhere that says I can't possibly ask you to bet against him, there's a feeling of something special this weekend. I just can't completely foresee Hatton as a winner this time, but that doesn't mean he can't find a way. If anyone on earth can do this it's Ricky Hatton. It is not an impossible ask. He has ample tools, and if Mayweather is not absolutely right, he could be taken. If anyone deserves this Ricky does.
PREDICTION - It has to be Mayweather points. But I have been swayed so much by Hatton's build-up and belief, that I advise backing against Ricky. The heart v head 'ometer' has moved nearer heart, but not quite enough

Ed Robinson - Reporter

There's an obvious logic that says Mayweather should win, there's no doubt he's an incredible talent. Floyd is unquestionably fast, slippery and experienced, but this fight is about so much more than just logic. Hatton will bully Mayweather, move in fast and shock the Pretty Boy with his speed and controlled ferocity. The crowd will lift Ricky through the rough patches, through the counter punches and through the fatigue. I see a close thrilling fight, but I also see Hatton become a British sporting legend with a memorable points win.

Comments

Darren Woodlock says...

Ricky has nothing to be ashamed of at all. He put his heart and soul into the fight and gave his best against a boxer in Mayweather who showed that he is a class act in the ring. Great effort Ricky......now get back down to your true weight at light welter and take Junior Witters crown.

Posted 14:00 10th December 2007

Dicksy Ngqula says...

This was one of the most exciting fights we have seen in a while. Mayweather's immense talent prevailed. I was inclined to think he would want to keep the fight at a distance and he didn't, just to prove what a versatile boxer he is. I could tell at the end of round 9 that the fight was going to end. It just looked like Mayweather could change gears, and he did. The people who are close to Hatton said he is at his best at Junior Welter, which explains why he weighed in 2 pounds less than Mayweather. One thing to take into account here is that in the 24 hours after the official weigh-in Mayweather would have gained more weight and this was a factor in the fight. Congratulations to both boxers for this spectacle. Big up to Ricky Hatton for being fearless, he was not disgraced and I'm sure the fans who went to watch him in Vegas know he did his best. I don't think he should retire yet. There are some good fights out there for him. Floyd Mayweather is an amazing talent. He stayed in control throughout. I loved how graceful he was after the fight. Pre-fight he was talking trash to create interest in the fight but afterwards he said some very kind words about Ricky, and that is a sign of a true champion.

Posted 13:47 10th December 2007

Fight Fan says...

Ricky was out-classed but has nothing to be ashamed of. He fought a man who was naturally bigger, fitter and faster with a 6 inch reach advantage, more championship experience and more power, not to mention the fact that Mayweather is technically one of the most gifted fighters ever. He did well to make it to round 10.

Posted 03:35 10th December 2007

Vivian Taylor says...

Unlucky Ricky, you did yourself and the country proud. Mayweather is a class act and in my, and many of my friends', eyes he is truly one of the all time greats.

Posted 15:19 9th December 2007

M. Higgins says...

Brendan Morgan...congratulations!!!...you're the only one that got it right!

Posted 09:32 9th December 2007

Marc Baffoe-bonnie says...

I think Ricky outhustles the Pretty Boy early on and goes to the body late when Mayweather tries to claw back the deficit for a 10th round stoppage.

Posted 20:53 8th December 2007

Dan Lane says...

My money has gone on Hatton. looking for him to work his magic in close, the body punches are in my opinion his biggest weapon. The power Ricky posseses inside will unlock the door tonight. Come on Ricky !!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Posted 20:42 8th December 2007

David Gibbs says...

Unfortunately I cannot see Ricky winning this one although I want him to win more than anything at the moment. I always believe a great bigg'un will always beat a great little'un and Mayweather is such a natural welterweight, his weight does not leave the 147 lbs mark even when he is not in training for a fight. One thing is for sure is that it is going to be one hell of a fight and we all have Ricky Hatton to thank for that but it will be Mayweather on points.

Posted 20:30 8th December 2007

Richard Taylor says...

I think Ricky will feel him out in the first round and then go all out with his sledgehammer of a body shot, getting in close to Mayweather. If the fight goes the distance I'd go for a draw. The longer the fight goes on ther more I think it favours Hatton. Mayweather will step up the intensity around the 6th or 7th round. This is his tactical point. Beyond that and Hatton's chances go up. Either way it will be a great fight especially for neutrals. C'mon Ricky!!!!

Posted 19:24 8th December 2007

Michael Chard says...

It is difficult for me to believe, but I'm looking forward to this fight even more rhan ANY of Ali's -- and I followed the Greatest from the beginning to the end with huge fervour and admiration! Yes -- that's how old I am folks!! Please Lord -- let it be Hatton; and by a clear margin if possible. However, and in that case, it has to be one of the clearest boxing margins; namely, some form of stoppage!!

Posted 15:58 7th December 2007

Tony Price says...

I have followed boxing for quite a while and have watched both these fighters quite a lot. I personally believe that Ricky Hatton has got the edge on this fight simply because of his desire to succeed at the highest level. He knows that if he wins this fight then he will be the best pound for pound fighter in the world and that is what will bring him back to England as the Undisputed World Welterweight Champion!

Posted 15:47 7th December 2007

Wayne Lloyd says...

Floyd is running scared of Ricky. The worry on Floyds face was there for all to see when Hatton pushed his chest into him. He was apprehensive, nervous and just looked a little off key to his usual mouthy self. A boxer like Mayweather needs to be dropped. I admit that he has every right to have an arrogance about himself and believe in his own skills - he is World Class and an all time great; however, he goes too far. Hatton has got to him a bit and I think this will allow him to get of to a flyer in the early rounds. If this happens I think Hatton will grow his confidence even more and Mayweather will lose his focus. It's a massive ask to beat him with a KO but I honestly think that Hatton can do this one.

Posted 15:34 7th December 2007

Paul Barrett says...

Hatton is not up to this fight ! Much as I would like to see him take it I fear that Mayweather is too seasoned and wise. Round 6, game over.

Posted 15:29 7th December 2007

Jamie Prouse says...

You can't argue that Hatton is a formidable fighter, and he is a wonderful champion, and I know you are waiting for my buts. Here it comes: Mayweather has been far more accomplished at this weight than Hatton, he is quicker, fought off comfortably better fighters and he has home backing. I see Mayweather doing the business within 8 rounds, not because I want him to win, but becasue I believe he will, based on his skills, his defence, his movement and his experience. This will probably be the hardest test he has come up against, but I think he will go down in history an all time great. Credit to Hatton who looks sharper than ever, a big hitter, a courageous fighter, and I just hope I am proved wrong. Hatton's career has been tremendous, but I feel he might just be outdone by the masterclass that is Mayweather. Good luck Ricky, I think you'll need it.

Posted 13:55 7th December 2007

Paul Mclaren says...

Very good point Derek. People seem to forget that Hatton has had to step up and put on pounds to fight who he has been fighting the last 6 or 7 boxers. It sertainly is a tricky one to peice together who is going to win. After reading the Sky Sports pundits verdict overall they are going for Mayweather. Rightly so as he is the best pound for pound talent in the world of boxing this minute. But Hatton doesn't seem very scared of the publicity he's facing out there in the U.S.A. Hatton does need a stoppage as we have seen before the American judges are always biased to their own kind. I can't play these two apart at all.

Posted 13:45 7th December 2007

Matt Barrett says...

Everyone knows how gifted Mayweather is and there's no doubt surrounding his ability, he is a naturally gifted boxer, a lot of people quote this as the boxer vs the brawler, but Hatton is not a brawler, his skills and ring movement do not befit that tag. He is a boxer with an aggressive mentality whereas Mayweather is a boxer with a defensive and avasive mentality and it is this that will make this fight interesting. I firmy believe Hatton has what it takes, his desire and passion have captured the nation, his heart is huge and his appetite is unquestionable, people are prepared for him to lose, either way he is still going to be revered by many. Mayweather on the other hand has it all to lose, he IS scared, he could lose his legacy, he professes he is the greatest of all time and puts himself above both sugars and Ali, but if he loses this fight, not only will his ego take a swift beating, he will have to stop bragging. For someone like Mayweather who already needs his entourage to constantly praise him to keep him believing he is the best, a loss will destroy him. I think this is the defining factor, they both have major attributes to make this a great fight, but the mental aspect will play more of a part in this battle than people realise. Neither want to lose that '0' from their CV and come fight night I think we are about to see a big battle, if theres a time to spend ¿15 on a night of TV, this has to be it. Good luck Hatton, prediction, Hatton KO PBF 7th Round

Posted 13:45 7th December 2007

Simon Davey says...

I have no doubt on this one. Its 100% Hatton for me. Regardless of him stepping up a weight. I saw him box 15 rounds in training the other night on 24/7 and I know Floyd will throw more than Billy Graham but I just think once in the zone he will be relentless. He has more in the tank than De La Hoya also. Not to mention the fact that Mayweather is making excuses about his hands blah blah blah. Come on Hatton!!!!!!!!

Posted 13:14 7th December 2007

Dicksy Ngqula says...

This, has the makings of a great fight so I am not suprised that the experts are finding it difficult to pick a winner. Looking at Ricky Hatton's strengths going into this fight you have to say he will utilize what he knows best, pressure, but he has to cut the ring to hopefully ensure Mayweather doesn't have space. That said his legs have to work over-time to get him to good attacking positions. Ironically Mayweather will use speed(legs and hands) to create distance, switch direction, and counter-punch but he has to be on this strategy the whole night because if he slows down one second he'll be there for Ricky to pick him. I have to disagree with one expert who thinks that Ricky Hatton should go for the body. That would work in theory, but I'm afraid it is physically impossible to reach Mayweather's body when he's moving at such a pace. Ricky will win if he is able to put Mayweather under intense pressure throughout 12 rounds. Equally Mayweather has to be on his toes for the entire fight if he is to win. He has to make a forward charging Hatton miss, counter-punch and change direction. We also know that Mayweather is not going to change his way of fighting by mixing with Hatton. His strategy is always to make the fight totally impossible for his opponent. So, every fight fan knows what each boxer should do to win. Their desire to win cannot be questioned as these are consumate professionals. It has to come down to talent and Floyd Mayweather will come out tops in all department. There won't be a knock out. Floyd "Pretty Boy" Mayweather will win on points.

Posted 12:50 7th December 2007

Craig Bruce says...

Two hugely talented, albeit very different fighters are coming together on Saturday night. I doubt if Mayweather will have underestimated Ricky's talent but I can't remember seeing any fighter as focused on the task as Ricky Hatton. He is an extremely impressive figure at the moment. If he's to win this, I beleive he'll have to land two or three bombs one after the other and put his man down. If it goes the distance, the man with the better technique will win - I'm afraid that may be Mayweather. However, Ricky Hatton has the heart of a British Bulldog and has a stunning abilty not to know when he's beat. Maybe this is his defining fight. Prediction - Hatton to come from behind and win with a knockout in the 7th or 8th. Fingers crossed!

Posted 12:49 7th December 2007

Eddie Green says...

I have said from day one Hatton will win this fight providing he emulates his performance against Tzyu which I know he will. As the fight gets closer I am even more confident of a Hatton win. That said a lot will depend on the referee I believe Mayweather will do a lot of complaining to the ref regarding Hatton's aggressive style. I just hope the ref is not on Mayweather's payroll and also the judges for that matter. Hatton is basically a man on a mission, to many people underestimate his ability. The winner will be Heart, Aggression and Pressure and not Speed, Arrogrance and Skill. Hatton on points if judged fairly or Mayweather refusing to come out of his corner for the 10th. Hatton soon to be 44 and 0

Posted 12:48 7th December 2007

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