Boxing Betting / Editor / 07 December 2007 /

Alex Steedman runs through the markets on the fight of the year...

As a myriad of punting possibility, Hatton v Mayweather is a tantalising prospect. So let's look at some of the options and their likely outcome.

On the outright match betting, those wishing to take on and lay Mayweather should consider that at [1.62] he is the biggest price he has been in several years and perhaps ever will be.

In his last three fights the five weight world champ opened up at [1.36] against De La Hoya before going off at [1.44], he was around [1.2] against Judah and [1.14] against Baldomir. I think Hatton can win this but Mayweather shouldn't be any bigger than [1.5] and as such probably has to be backed.

How the fight will unfold, I think is easier to predict. Those looking for a knockout either way can get [5.7] on Mayweather, [5.2] on Hatton. Mayweather hasn't won that way for two years and both his KOs in 2005 were against lights of yesteryear Mitchell and Gatti.

Brittle hands and a punch and move style suggest no. And please don't even bring up the Hatton going up in weight issue - Hatton will be at least 3-4lbs heavier than Mayweather come fight night. As for a Hatton stoppage, most of those have come grinding opponents down. Mayweather is too slippery for that and The Hitman's KO against Castillo was a once-in-a-lifetime wonder punch.

Rather the Decision/Technical Decision and Points markets look the ones to concentrate on. The former allows you the safety net of an accidental clash of heads but there's not a great deal in the prices. Mayweather will let Hatton come on to him, he'll look to counter and take advantage of any defenceless gaps while The Hitman ought to enjoy applying a deal of energetic and intelligent pressure.

There is even an argument for laying to back Mayweather. American judges usually reward come forward fighters, so any close rounds could go Hatton's way. It will be tough, close and I think won on points.

Advice

Mayweather on points - [2.38]
Hatton on points - [6.4]

Stake to return according to who you fancy more but the market allows you to back one and save on the other. Good Luck.

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