Ricky Hatton to become trainer

Former world champion Ricky Hatton is to become a trainer after gaining his licence from the British Boxing Board of Control.

Hatton announced his retirement from professional boxing earlier this summer and has now set his sights on a career in training and management.

"The board have shown great faith in me by giving me a trainer's licence for the first time," said the 32-year-old.

"It means they are putting their trust in me to go in a corner with a boxer and look after his welfare."

Formerly known as the "Hitman" in the ring, he also took over from his father Ray as head of the Hatton Group this week, but will wait before applying to regain his manager's licence.

"I will eventually manage fighters, but there won't be an abundance of them because I have so many irons in the fire at the minute," he added.

In his 12-year career Hatton won 45 of his 47 fights.