Ricky Hatton says he is committed to bringing the good times back to Bristol boxing.

The world light welterweight king, pictured right, is confident he and Bristol-based promoter Jane Couch can unearth a new generation of fighters to follow in the footsteps of Glenn Catley, Ross Hale and Dean Francis.

Donning his promoter's hat, the 'Hitman' will take time out from his preparations for his May 2 showdown with Manny Pacquiao to stage an eight-fight show in association with former women's world champion Couch at Bristol's city-centre Marriott Hotel on Saturday.

And the Mancunian wants to give the city's up-and-coming boxers the opportunity to realise their potential and fight for major titles in the future.

Speaking exclusively to the Post from his training camp in Manchester, Hatton said: "I want to put something back into boxing in Bristol.

"I fought twice at the Whitchurch Sports Centre during the early part of my career and I've always had a great reception at my dinner engagements down there.

"I have fans all over the country, but those in Bristol have a special place in my heart. We have some great young prospects in Manchester and I'm already helping them. Now I want to do the same for the young fighters in Bristol.

"Jane and Tex Woodward are really flying the flag for the region and they have some great young talent in their camp. Hopefully, I can help them take the next step towards making a name for themselves."

Hatton twice appeared on Chris Sanigar shows in Bristol during the mid-1990s and he recalled: "I remember seeing some great fighters at that time.

"They had Ross Hale, Glenn Catley and Dean Francis and those guys were all British champions. The shows were always sold out and the Bristol crowd was really passionate about their boxing and their boxers.

"I want some of that for my young boys in Manchester and it would be nice if, between us, Jane and I could bring back the glory days in Bristol."

Hatton intends moving into promoting full-time once he hangs his gloves up and this will be his second promotion in Bristol.

Local hero Danny Butler contests the vacant Western Area middleweight crown in the main event.