Buckland hooks up with Hitman Hatton (From South Wales Argus)

Buckland hooks up with Hitman Hatton

12:40pm Friday 19th June 2009

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NEWPORT’S Gary Buckland has been confirmed for the fight of his life, thanks to former world champion Ricky ‘the Hitman’ Hatton.

St Joseph’s trained Buckland, 23, with a record of just one defeat and 15 victories, will clash in a British lightweight title eliminator on home soil, at the Newport Centre on Friday, July 24.

It’s a dream clash for Tony Borg’s star pupil and it’s all thanks to Hatton, who will be in attendance to cheer on his newest disciple.

Buckland has joined the ranks of Hatton Promotions and that has given him the opportunity to take on 30-year-old Henry Castle, though there remains the possibility that the fight will end up as a full British title clash.

Unbeaten British champion John Murray missed the weight last week in beating Scott Lawton and there has been mention that he will be stripped of his title, though that is not yet clear, Buckland’s camp waiting on word from the British Boxing Board of Control.

Buckland will be hoping to join an illustrious list of former British champions at lightweight, including luminaries such as Ken Buchanan and Jim Watt.

Manager Brian Powell confirmed that Buckland has left promoter Frank Maloney and believes he is on the verge of the big time after joining Hatton, who is excited by the fight.

The hugely popular Mancunian, who enjoys arguably the biggest fan following in the sport, told the Argus he is excited about the fight and seeing his signing live for the first time.

“We are delighted to be going to Newport for what will hopefully be a terrific fight,” Hatton said.

“Gary Buckland is a great prospect and we’re excited to have signed him.

“He can go a long way in boxing and I know he’s well supported, I look forward to seeing that for myself at the Newport Centre.”

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