Depressed Hatton checks in to rehab

Former boxing champion Ricky Hatton has been admitted to rehab suffering "severe depression" in the aftermath of drug use allegations.

Hatton, who last fought in May 2009 after a career in which he regularly ballooned in weight before fasting dramatically for his fights, was filmed by the News of the World appearing to snort cocaine in a Manchester hotel toilet.

His spokesman Max Clifford told the Press Association that Hatton had been "suffering from severe depression for several weeks".

Hatton, who now works as a boxing promoter could also lose his licence with the British Boxing Board of Control confirming they want to meet him.

"The Board want to see Ricky at the earliest opportunity and discuss the issues raised in the press accounts," said BBBC chairman Charles Giles.

The 31-year-old has not fought since being floored three times inside two rounds by Manny Pacquiao in 2009.

He finished his career with a professional record of 45 wins from 47 fights.

Source: eurosport.co.uk