Ricky Hatton to face Vyacheslav Senchenko in comeback bout

Former two-time champ and British superstar Ricky “The Hitman” Hatton will come out of retirement for his first fight in 3½ years when he faces former WBA welterweight titleholder Vyacheslav Senchenko on Saturday, November 24, in Manchester, England. The welterweight fight is scheduled for ten rounds and will be broadcast on Showtime.

The last time Hatton was seen in the ring, he was lying flat on his back courtesy of a thunderous Manny Pacquiao left hand. Now after a such a long layoff, the skeptics are sure to be lining up ready to express their doubts at the 34-year-old Hatton's chances.

If Hatton is to improve on his 45-2 (32 KOs) record, then he will have to first conquer some of his personal demons outside the ring, as he battled depression, suicidal thoughts, reported substance abuse, and ballooning weight after losing to Pacquiao.

Even prior to the Pacquiao loss, Hatton often had difficulty with his weight between fights, earning himself the not-so-flattering nickname Ricky "Fatton."

“People ask if I should come back, will I win, can I be world champ again. They don’t get it,’’ Hatton said. “I’ve already won. I’m here. I saved myself. The end of the ‘Ricky Hatton Story’ was not being knocked out by Pacquiao. I’m looking forward to getting back in the ring and showing what I can do. I want to get back in the title mix, but you can’t do that by taking easy fights. That’s why I’m taking on this guy.’’

Senchenko (32-1, 21 KOs) is a risky opponent who went undefeated in 31 fights before losing the WBA Welterweight World Title to Paulie Malignaggi in his most recent outing last April 29.

In addition to his opponent, Hatton also will be dealing with ring rust and will be fighting in a division where he has historically had his troubles.

Still, Hatton generates much-needed star power and excitement in the sport. With his come-forward style and his legion of chanting fans, the scrappy Hatton is one of Britain ’s all-time most popular fighters.

If triumphant on November 24, Hatton could be looking at several high-profile bouts in the near future, including a rematch with Malignaggi, the current WBA welterweight champion.

By Staff of The Daily Sports Herald