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British star Ricky Hatton, who faces a tough test in Manny Pacquiao on May 2 (May 3 in Manila), hinted that Pacquiao is still the one-dimensional fighter he used to be.

Speaking at a conference call to promote his megabuck match with Pacquiao, Hatton said he has studied his opponent’s style very well — and concluded that the Pacman “fights the same way all the time.”

“I do really believe he's [Pacquiao] very effective at what he does, but I think he fights the same way all the time. He throws the same punches all the time. He throws a right jab, a one-two. He shuffles in and out with his feet, which obviously if you don't get to — if you don't get adjusted to the style of his feet obviously it could cause you problems,” Hatton (45-1, 32 KOs) elaborated.

Hatton’s statements are somehow in contrast with the general perception that Pacquiao has metamorphosized from a one-dimensional slugger to a complete fighter. The General Santos City-based southpaw used to rely only on his powerful left straight to knock out opponents.

But under the guidance of renowned trainer Freddie Roach, Pacquiao (48-3-2, 38 KOs) has added a lethal right hook to his arsenal, and now uses remarkable footwork — consistently darting in and out to poke short stabs at his opponent then immediately staying out of harm’s way.

Still, Hatton is not convinced in Pacquiao being a “complete fighter,” saying it just takes proper adjustment to beat the current pound-for-pound king.

“But I think you get adjusted to this style — I don't see a versatile fight in Manny Pacquiao,” he continued. - By Dino Maragay (Philstar News Service, www.philstar.com)

From: yahoo.com news