Harrison inspired by hero Hatton

Wolverhampton fighter Dean Harrison believes the presence of his hero Ricky Hatton at the Civic Hall will be all the motivation needed to win the Midlands title.

The former world champion and MBE, a British legend at light welterweight, will be ringside next Sunday as the challenger takes a shot at title holder Ben Lawler in the main event with the division's area belt up-for-grabs.

Hatton is involved with the event through his promotional company, who are screening the fight live on pay-per-view through his website.

But Harrison also has a history with the Hatton family, who took him as a young fighter to box in Las Vegas the night before Ricky took on Floyd Mayweather Jr in December 2007.

And 'Deano' reckons having 'the Hitman' watching his every move will only spur him on come the fight.

He said: "To this date, Ricky is my favourite boxer and someone I have looked up to all of my career. I take inspiration from him, if I can achieve any of what he has I will be happy with that.

"His family have done a lot for me. Whatever happens to me now, whether I get the British title or not, at least I can always say that I boxed in Las Vegas, and that is something that no-one can ever take away from me. I have the Hattons to thank for that.

"It was unbelievable, the best experience of my life."

Harrison has used a three-week training camp in New York at Kid Kelly's Brooklyn-based gym to make some big decisions coming into a pivotal year in his career, after big and damaging losses to then-British champion Paul McCloskey and Darren Askew in 2009.

Trainer Lee Beard, part of the Hatton set up, is the new face in the corner after coming on board to lead the 26-year-old from now on.

But perhaps the most significant call of all has been made - this will be Harrison's last fight at light welter.

'Deano' is moving up to welter one way or the other so, even in taking the Midlands title, his reign is likely to be shortlived.

He said: "I wouldn't have wished the year I had last year on my worst enemy, but going back with Lee is the best thing I have done in a long time.

"But I can't stay at light welter, I just can't do the weight anymore. We have agreed 100 per cent that I have got to move up after this fight.

"With a winning finish, I could drop the belt and then take Dave Ryan's Midlands welterweight title away from him, that is what I am hoping for."

For tickets, contact promoter Paul 'PJ' Rowson on 07976 283 157.

The 12-fight show will also be broadcast online live on pay-per view at a cost of just £2.99, through Hatton TV at www.brandhatton.com.