CANASTOTA, NY – AUGUST 29, 2006 – Two-division world champion Ricky “The Hitman” Hatton will make his first visit to “Boxing’s Hometown” on Wednesday, September 13th where he will be the guest of honor at a special VIP reception at the Boxing Hall of Fame’s Event Pavilion. “Ricky Hatton is one of the most exciting young boxers in the world today and the Hall is thrilled about welcoming him to Canastota from his home in England,” said Hall of Fame director Ed Brophy. “It’s a great opportunity for fans to meet one of boxing’s superstars.”
The evening will run from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. and consist of photograph and autograph opportunities, refreshments, silent and live auctions, and fight films highlighting Hatton’s career.
“This promises to be an unforgettable night for both Ricky and his fans,” said Brophy.
While in Canastota for the VIP reception, Hatton will tour the Hall of Fame Museum and take in its many exhibits on boxing history, including fight-worn boxing robes, trunks, shoes and other authentic memorabilia. Canastota’s own Hall of Famer, former welterweight and middleweight champion Carmen Basilio will be on hand to greet Hatton and welcome him to “Boxing’s Hometown.”
The pride of Manchester, England, “The Hitman” turned pro in 1997. In 2001 he captured the WBU light welterweight title and wins over Freddie Pendleton, Eamonn Magee, Joe Hutchinson, Vince Phillips, Ben Tackie, Micheal Stewart and Ray Oliveira among others followed. On June 4, 2005 “The Hitman” was matched with IBF light welterweight champion Kostya Tszyu in Manchester’s MEN Arena. With 22,000 fans cheering him on, Hatton defeated the long-reigning champion with an 11th round KO to win the championship. In his next bout, Hatton added the WBA light welterweight belt to his collection with a 9th round KO over Carlos Maussa. For his achievements in 2005, Hatton was named “Fighter of the Year.”
In his most recent outing, Hatton moved up in weight and won a hard-fought unanimous decision over Luis Collazo for the WBA welterweight title. Hatton will next put his undefeated record (41-0, 30 KOs) on the line December 9th in Atlanta, GA.
Tickets for the Hatton reception are $35 and can be purchased by calling the Boxing Hall of Fame at 315-697-7095. Only a limited number of tickets will be available and tickets must be purchased in advance. All proceeds will benefit the Boxing Hall of Fame.
For more information, please call the Hall of Fame at 315-697-7095 or visit www.ibhof.com.