Hatton dejected after first defeat

LAS VEGAS (TICKER) —Ricky Hatton admitted his pride was hurting the most after his knockout defeat by Floyd Mayweather Jr.

The Hitman’s dream of becoming the best fighter on the planet was ended by a Floyd Mayweather KO in the 10th round at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas on Saturday night.

“He was very clever at nicking a breather, fiddling and farting about,” Hatton said. “This might sound strange because he’s knocked me out, but I don’t think he’s the hardest puncher I’ve ever faced. But he is very accurate.”

He forced the pace for much of the bout but his hopes were ended by a crushing left hook early in round 10. Hatton gamely got to his feet after a count of eight, but was sent down again after another Mayweather flurry and referee Joe Cortez called a halt to the bout at 1:36 of the round.

Hatton, still smiling despite the pain of defeat, joked: “Well, what a fluke that was. I thought I was doing okay. I was forcing it but he’s very good at making you miss, slipping and sliding. He was better inside than I thought he would be.”

Hatton was gracious in defeat and paid tribute to his victorious opponent, who once again showcased his awesome talents.

“He felt big and strong,” Hatton said. “He’s not the biggest welterweight ever, but I felt the difference. The gameplan made sense but I wasn’t quite good enough to apply it tonight. He was using his forearms to make room for the shots and he got me. I thought the plan was working but to be truthful I didn’t quite stick to the gameplan.”

Hatton apologized to his army of travelling fans and admitted: “My pride is very hurt - that hurts more than the punches.”