• Boxing

Hatton promises to battle back

ESPN staff
September 18, 2010
Ricky Hatton was admitted into rehab on Monday © Getty Images
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Ricky Hatton has vowed to win the 'toughest fight' of his life following allegations of cocaine use.

Hatton checked into rehab on Monday and is currently undergoing treatment for severe depression and a drink problem and he believes his troubles are rooted in an inability to cope with life after boxing.

"I'm currently in the Priory dealing with depression due to the fact that I have not been able to cope with my retirement from boxing," Hatton said in a video interview with News of the World.

"I have been binge drinking heavily and dabbling in other daft and silly things but it is going to be the toughest fight of my life and I'm here to win it."

Meanwhile, Hatton's friend Amir Khan has backed the former world champion to bounce back from his problems.

"I've spoken to Ricky," the WBA light-welterweight champion said. "He's doing well; he's in rehab at the moment. I got to speak to his mum as well and we're all 100 per cent behind Ricky."

"He's done something wrong and everybody makes mistakes in their life at one time or another. I think we all just want to show our support towards Ricky. People forget he was a great champion and I'm 100 per cent behind him. Team Khan is behind him.If he needs any help, I'm here for him."

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.
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