Hatton gunning for Mayweather rematch

RICKY HATTON craves a rematch with Floyd Mayweather — and efforts to lure the American to Wembley next spring have already begun.

Golden Boy Promotions chief executive Richard Schaefer revealed yesterday he has received a positive response from Mayweather’s camp over a second meeting.

Hatton was comprehensively dispatched in the 10th round by Mayweather in Las Vegas last December, but subsequent viewing of the fight convinced him referee Joe Cortez contributed to his downfall.

Most observers felt Hatton was simply outclassed by the world’s finest boxer but the 29-year-old’s sense of injustice has escalated, fuelling his determination to avenge the only defeat on his 44-fight record.

And his dream of locking horns with the brilliant Mayweather again moved a step closer when Schaefer revealed he has already held discussions over staging a clash in London next year.

“It’s very likely that Floyd will come over next spring. Floyd and his manager Al Hayman are very serious about it,” said Schaefer.

“The first fight was great and while Floyd would have to get past Oscar De La Hoya first, he knows that Ricky has talked about the referee.

“He wants to show that he will repeat what happened the first time.”

Hatton faces Juan Lazcano in Manchester Stadium on May 24, with a victory setting up a possible showdown against IBF light-welterweight champion Paul Malig-naggi.

Mayweather must again overcome De La Hoya, who must dispatch Steve Forbes on May 3 to avoid inflicting a setback on his plans to collide with Mayweather for a second time.