Hatton ready to raise game

Ricky Hatton admits he has been below par for his last two fights and is looking for improvement against Jose Luis Castillo next month.

Hatton's IBO welterweight title fight, in Las Vegas on June 23, gives the Manchester fighter the chance to enhance his reputation as one of Britain's finest boxers and he is hoping the Mexican will bring out the best in him.

"In the last two fights I was expected to win and maybe took my foot off the gas but I think Castillo will bring the best out of me," Hatton said.

The 28-year-old admits he was under par against Juan Urango and Luis Collazo, and is looking to reach the levels of his famous win over Kostya Tszyu nearly two years ago.

It's my toughest fight and my biggest fight apart from Kostya Tszyu," he added.

Meanwhile, Hatton has left the door open for a showdown in England with Oscar De La Hoya after the Castillo clash.

De La Hoya, who lost his WBC light middleweight crown to Floyd Mayweather at the weekend, has been suggested as a possible opponent.

"Without a doubt it would be a dream," said Hatton.

"He's not even a modern-day legend, he's a legend with everything he has done.

"He said he would be willing to move near the welterweight division in order to do it."