Hatton to face American on road to IBF title
Ricky Hatton will fight American Mike Stewart at Manchester’s MEN Arena on October 1 as he re-routes towards a major world title shot.
Hatton has been frustrated by recent failed attempts to entice WBA light-welterweight champion Vivian Harris to Britain.
And he will instead target the IBF title, for which his clash with Stewart is billed as a final eliminator.
Reigning champion Kostya Tszyu takes on Sharmba Mitchell in the Autumn and Hatton is eyeing a showdown against the winner.
Hatton – unbeaten in 36 professional fights – will not expect to be unduly detained by Stewart.
The 26-year-old American, who holds a 36-2-2 record, appeared on Hatton’s undercard last April and was knocked down three times on his way to a points loss to Mitchell.
