Hitman brimming with self-belief ahead of Pacquiao clash
Ricky Hatton says he is at the pinnacle of his powers as he concludes his preparations for Saturday night's showdown with Manny Pacquiao in Las Vegas.
The Mancunian's IBO light-welterweight title will be on the line when he takes on Pacquiao, regarded by many as the best pound-for-pound fighter in the world.
Both fighters were mobbed by fans as they arrived in Vegas for the eagerly anticipated bout and Hatton - who has lost just once, to Floyd Mayweather Jnr, in 46 fights - is doing all the talking.
"I may be fat. I may be round. But guess who is going to be the best pound-for-pound?" Hatton said. "British fans travel well. Manny has a fantastic following as well but on Saturday it will be just like being in Britain.
"I've never felt this relaxed and confident. With Mayweather I got caught up in all of the hullabaloo. I have not lost too many rounds, let alone any fights, at 140 pounds.
"Three or four fights ago, Pacquiao might have beaten me. I don't think so now. Technically I'm boxing a lot better, jabbing and moving. The British bulldog has learned a few new tricks.
"I'm more explosive than most opponents he's fought. He has not fought anyone who is going to be as powerful and ferocious and aggressive as me. This is the best Ricky Hatton has ever been."
Hatton, 45-1 with 32 knockouts, represents a far greater test for Pacquiao, 48-3 with two drawn and 35 knockouts, than Oscar De La Hoya and the Filipino is staying focused.
"I don't want to talk too much before the fight," Pacquiao said when asked for a response. "I want to let my fists do the talking in the ring."
