Hatton scores a career-defining victory over Castillo

                                                              But is it too late in his career to capitalize on it?

                                                         By Alden Chodash

  Hatton's recent victory over Castillo in my opinion was flawless, and did everything to revitalize his status as one of the best fighters in the sport. Not only did he defeat a real legend of the game in Jose Luis Castillo but Hatton did it in a single punch, to the liver, also revitalizing the point once made that Hatton is one of the game's premier body-punchers. After the victory, the obvious inevitable question of who's next loomed in my mind, but also, what can he do at this stage in his career. Although Hatton looked fresh in his victory, we can't forget he's recorded 43 bouts, already making him a veteran. But if Hatton continues to battle on, and all post-fight statements suggest that he will, the most likely name in his path would be Mayweather's and although Floyd's "retirement", the bout may eventually be too good to withhold for the pound-for-pound kingpin.

   Besides a bout with Mayweather which may very well never come off, Hatton not only has a talented and hungry Junior-Welterweight division to take on, but the next division up, lets not forget, is recognized by many right now as boxing's glamour division. Not only does the pound-for-pound champion reign supreme in the division, but fighters like Antonio Margarito, Miguel Cotto, Shane Mosley, and up-and-coming phenomenon Paul Williams would all make for marquee fights with the "Hitman". Although Hatton's only experience in the 147 class was loaded with unexpected adversity against Luis Collazo, Hatton was unprepared making the performance excusable.

   If Hatton decides to stay at 140, the most exciting bout to make and to see would be against bad-blood rival Junior Witter. Witter, like Hatton, overwhelms his opponents with handspeed and volume but his awkwardness would be a new experience for Hatton. You really couldn't make a bigger bout in England than this one, and the fact that Hatton has been a TV favorite recently gives you the impression that the bout would receive worldwide exposure by the media. And if Witter brings all friends and followers to the venue, you won't only see excitement inside the ring. This would be a great project.

    But although the welterweight division offers more names in the Brit's face and possibly more money, Hatton stated himself after the debacle with Collazo that it was difficult to operate at 147. Unless the name Mayweather is guaranteed, it would be unlikely if Hatton would take too many chances \in the division if he takes any at all. But one thing I believe is certain is that he will put as much into landing a bout with those superstars as he did in his left hook to the liver of Jose Luis Castillo.