Beard leaves Hatton camp
Ricky Hatton's trainer Lee Beard has parted company with the fighter to move to the USA.
Beard, like Hatton a Mancunian, has been associated with the former two-weight world champion for several years dating back to the boxer's time with trainer Billy Graham.
Beard became more heavily involved after Hatton parted company with Graham and was part of the fractured training set-up which saw Floyd Mayweather Sr oversee the second-round defeat by Manny Pacquiao last year.
While Hatton confirmed Mayweather would not be involved after he announced he will continue fighting last month, Beard seemed set to take over as the main trainer.
However, Beard - who also trains Hatton's younger brother Matthew and has spent time working in America before - will instead head off to work in the US.
A statement from Hatton Promotions said: "Lee has strong family connections in America and we fully understand his wish to move out there.
"As far as Ricky is concerned he has not made any decision as to who will be replacing Floyd Mayweather senior as his trainer and he will address this issue on his return from holiday.
"Matthew Hatton will continue his training for his fight at Fenton Manor, Stoke on the February 19 under the wing of Bob Shannon.
"In the meantime Ricky, Matthew and everyone in the Hatton Camp wish Lee every success for the future."
Date published :
04 Feb 2010 - 13:27:53
