Nobody wants to see their loved ones lose, especially when they know the sting of defeat firsthand. British boxing legend Ricky Hatton recently experienced that pain when his son, Campbell Hatton, suffered a second loss to Doncaster’s James Flint. The two first faced off in March this year in a tightly contested ten-round bout, with ‘The Young Lion’ edging out a win via unanimous decision.

When they met again for their rematch on October 26 at the Co-op Live Arena in Manchester, it was another close encounter, and the result was all too familiar. Flint clinched the victory once more, with judges scoring it 94-97, 95-96, and 94-96 in his favor. Following the fight, Hatton Sr., well-versed in the challenges of the sport, took to social media to share words of encouragement for both fighters. 

“Another close one for the lad @campbellhatton last night,” he began. “Everyone has [their] view. I thought he lost the first fight by [the] narrowest of margins. [I] thought he won the second fight last night also by the narrowest of margins..” While ‘The Hitman’ may have a slightly different view of the results of the two fights, he was bang on about one thing. 

“They were both great close fights that could’ve probably [gone] either way,” Hatton Sr added. The retired boxer congratulated Flint on his victory, noting, “Respectful like I found his whole family. Best of luck to you Jimmy.” Turning to his son, who suffered his second career defeat, Hatton’s advice mirrored that of a sage. 

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“Chin up son, have a rest, have a think,” the 46-year-old wrote. “Don’t think you’ll ever know how much I love you & how proud we all are of you. No father could be more blessed & I feel proud that every day I get the chance to say to people that’s my boy. Love Dad.” Meanwhile, Campbell Hatton’s promoter has shared his take on whether the 23-year-old should continue to fight. 

Eddie Hearn suggests Campbell Hatton should consider his future

Matchroom honcho Eddie Hearn urged Campbell to consider his future in boxing following his loss to James Flint. Despite switching trainers from his uncle, Matthew Hatton, to Barry Smith at the Ben Davison Performance Centre, the fight ended up no different from the last one. Hearn, while recognizing Hatton Jnr.’s dedication, noted, “I think right now Campbell Hatton’s level is Area and English title level—that’s no disgrace.”

He emphasized that his company focuses on fighters aiming beyond that level, adding, “If that’s my level, am I happy to continue? And if he’s happy to continue, he should absolutely continue.” Hearn also reflected on the results, including the one from Hatton Jnr.’s father Ricky, stating, “I spoke to Ricky Hatton. Ricky thought he edged the fight and I said, ‘In my opinion, I thought you lost 6-4.’”

Campbell Hatton may have taken a setback in his boxing career, but his father, Ricky Hatton, has shown unwavering support. Knowing firsthand what a setback can do, Hatton Snr. shared the special message with his son. Regardless, only time will tell what is on the cards for Campbell. What did you think of the fight?