RICKY Hatton will be without one of his biggest fans at the MEN Arena tonight (Saturday).

Phil 'The Power' Taylor, the 11-times World darts champion, has never missed a Hatton pro fight until tonight.

But the Stoke-based star will be away in Holland on a two-week tour of exhibition matches that was arranged before the Hatton bout.

He said: "I'm really, really gutted that I won't be there but unfortunately I've had this booking for months.

"I'll be in Holland and I wish I wasn't. Sometimes these things happen but there's nothing I can do about it.

"It's the first time I've missed one of his fights since he turned pro.

"Perhaps I've been a lucky omen for him and I hope I still am.

"I've been watching Ricky training and he's ready. I normally go into the dressing room to see him before a fight but I'll be there in spirit, that's for sure.

"Most of his fights are here but, if and when he goes abroad, I'll go with him. I keep telling him to get a fight at Caesars Palace in Las Vegas."

The friendship started because Hatton is a big darts fan with Taylor being one of his favourites.

Taylor added: "I've always liked boxing and I have become friends, not just with Ricky, but with his whole family."

"Hatton plays in the Hyde and Denton District Logend League and has is waiting to play a semi-final when his boxing commitments allow.

Taylor will be hoping to have Hatton supporting him when he defends his Budweiser UK Open title at Bolton's Reebok stadium on June 4-6.

Carlisle s Peter Manley is heading the 128 qualifiers from eight regional finals for the FA Cup of darts which is played on a straight knockout basis over five sessions for a £30,000 first prize.

Tickets ( £6 to £12) are on sale at the Reebok box office or by phoning 0871 8712932.

Tickets for all sessions with a reserved seat are £40.







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