Ashley Theophane has revealed that the opportunity to work with Ricky Hatton persuaded him to join Hatton Promotions. The British light-welterweight champion stunned the boxing world last week when he signed a three year deal with Hatton’s mushrooming company. Other big name promoters were also hunting ‘The Treasure’, but Ash the Bash said: “I feel with Ricky Hatton behind me, I can achieve anything. Ricky believes in my talent and I feel like he can get me a shot at the world title. He has been where I want to go on the world scene.”

‘Hitman’ Hatton was eager to sign a world class light-welterweight who could emulate him and unify the 140lb division, and believes he has captured a real gem.

Theophane added: “Ricky was the king of the 140lb Division and he has passed the mantle over to me. I want to fight the world’s best and Ricky can make that happen.

“Over the next 12 months I want to win the Lonsdale belt outright and fight Erik Morales or Timothy Bradley for the world title. “

Theophane, 31, will make the second defence of his domestic crown when he meets Nigel Wright later this year.

He turned professional in June 2003 and captured the British title at Wembley Arena in February by outpointing Lenny Daws.

Theophane returned to the same venue in July and made a successful defence stopping Welshman Jason Cook in ten one-side rounds.