Daniel Cann

Detractors point to his two decisive defeats at the hands of Floyd Mayweather Jr and Manny Pacquiao, citing these as a good reason for Hatton to quit. His last defeat to Pacquiao was as frightening as it was conclusive, Hatton getting dismantled and knocked down several times before suffering the indignity of a shocking knockout in the second round.

That was a traumatic contest for the likeable and hugely popular Hatton, but it served notice of his limitations at the very top level of professional boxing. There is no disgrace in losing to Mayweather and Pacquiao who are both considered by the public and more importantly the experts as the pound for pound best in the World today.

Hatton has proved that he can more than hold his own with fighters from the next tier. The big question now is where does he go? Rematches with his two conquerors is out of the question as they would not sell and he would be out of his depth again.

A contest is being mooted with the excellent but now shopworn Mexican and former World Champion (and Mayweather and Pacquiao opponent) Juan Manuel Marquez who, at 36, has seen better days. He would still represent a challenge to Hatton but thankfully he lacks the speed of Mayweather and the power of Pacquiao.

But there is no such thing as a 'safe' fight or payday. Those who fear for Hatton's well being will argue that he can still get hurt and it does appear that his defence has become very leaky indeed and his punch resistance has gone. Even at just 31 he is getting on in terms of a fighter competing in the lighter weight divisions.

My own opinion is that Hatton should come back for just one more fight to get it all out of his system. I would rather that than in a few years time hear of him making a comeback after a longer layoff and at an even more advanced age.

'To rest is to rust' so the saying goes and the sooner Hatton gets his demons out of his system the better. Boxing is highly addictive and the fighter is always the last one to know when to 'hang 'em up' for good. But this time I think we can give him the benefit of the doubt. As long as he does not end his days as an 'opponent' or 'name' for younger fighters such as Amir Khan then I see no problem with him returning to the ring one last time.

So, good luck Ricky. You have nothing left to prove only to yourself. No matter what the outcome of this last fight you will always be loved and respected by all boxing fans in this country. Get it out of your system then enjoy the long happy retirement that you so deserve.