Former boxing world champion Ricky Hatton has expressed his dream of getting in the ring with Cristiano Ronaldo and said he wanted to “give him a slap”, GOAL reports. Hatton is a loyal Manchester City fan who has never hidden his disdain for Manchester United, where Ronaldo made his name twice successfully.
Ronaldo’s legacy at United was marked by victories in the Premier League and Champions League, making him a beloved figure among Red Devils fans but also a source of competition for Manchester City fans such as Hatton. When asked about his dream opponent, Hatton didn’t hesitate: “Cristiano Ronaldo. He used to play for Manchester United. Manchester United fans love him, he’s handsome, so why wouldn’t you want to give him a slap? Me Gotta catch him first, but he’s gotta be a good player, isn’t he?”
During his first spell at Manchester United from 2003 to 2009, Ronaldo scored 118 goals in 292 games. He headed to Real Madrid where he continued his remarkable career before returning to Old Trafford in 2021. However, his second term ended abruptly in November 2022 after he publicly criticized former and current United players. Now, Ronaldo is continuing his remarkable story in the Saudi Professional League.
Ricky Hatton’s comments add humor to the age-old rivalry between Manchester City and Manchester United. While a boxing match between a legend like Hatton and football icon Cristiano Ronaldo remains a fantasy, it highlights the passion football can inspire, even among sporting legends. For now, fans can enjoy the banter, with Hatton’s dream match remaining in the realm of imagination.