Ricky 'The Hitman' Hatton Needs Help To Knockout Depression and Alcohol Abuse

Former two-time IBF and IBO light welterweight king Ricky "The Hitman" Hatton was admitted last weekend to a rehabilitation clinic in Manchester, England to treat depression and a drinking problem.

Hatton (45-2, 32 KOs), an Englishman who is also a past WBU and WBA light welterweight titlist, hasn't fought since he was knocked onto Queer Street in the second round by Manny "Pac Man" Pacquiao (51-3-2, 38 KOs) in May 2009 at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas, Nevada.

The only other blemish on "The Hitman's" record came at the hands of undefeated legend "Pretty Boy" Floyd Mayweather (41-0, 25 KOs) in December 2007.

Hatton is an exciting prizefighter who is beloved among his fellow countryman due to his humble nature and aggressive style in the ring.

Nevertheless, it is fair to suggest that Hatton was an overrated scrapper who wasn't capable of defeating any truly dominant champions.

Hatton has always seemed like a tough guy who would rather slam a dozen Irish car bombs than fulfill his entire potential in "The Sweet Science."

In fact, "The Hitman" gladly accepted the moniker "Ricky Fatton" because of his propensity to amass to a surreal 35 to 40 pounds in between bouts.

On Sunday, the British tabloid The News of the World published a front-page picture of Hatton apparently snorting cocaine two weeks ago.

Hatton spokesman Max Clifford said "the drugs are quite recent and not the problem."

Clifford continued and revealed "others have been increasingly concerned about his (Hatton's) depression and drinking."

Hatton turns 32 in three weeks and all reports indicate he is in horrendous physical condition.

"The Hitman" is a major attraction who has amassed rabid throngs of supporters throughout western Europe and America.

Throughout everyone of his matchups, his fans constantly sing the inane lyrics below:

"There's only one Ricky Hatton,
One Ricky Hatton,
Walking along,
Singing this song,
Walking in a Hatton wonderland."

Ricky Hatton is a distinguished fighter who deserves respect for what he managed to accomplish in the squared circle.

Nevertheless, Hatton is also apparently a lost soul whose personal life is the antithesis of a "wonderland."

Ricky Hattom requires help and he clearly now needs the support of his fans outside the ring far more than he ever did inside of it.