Ricky Hatton in 'advanced talks' over boxing comeback fight vs Marco Antonio Barrera

British boxing legend Ricky Hatton is in advanced talks over a sensational exhibition fight against 48-year-old great Marco Antonio Barrera, according to reports. The Hitman, who retired for a second time in 2012 following defeat to Vyacheslav Senchenko in Manchester, is targeting a potential return to the ring later this year as discussions between both parties continue.

Hatton continues to tick over in the gym and is often out on the road running to keep up his fitness levels.

Yet an unexpected return to the sport is now a serious proposition as Hatton prepares to follow in the footsteps of fellow boxing legends Mike Tyson, Roy Jones Jr and Evander Holyfield.

The Manchester icon has already made it clear he is supportive of exhibitions, stating last year: "I am all for these dream fights we keep hearing about.

"I have youngsters coming up to me, saying, 'I've watched your fights on video but I never got to see you live!'

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"And I think that is why I'm a fan of these exhibitions.

"You're not going to see your heroes get seriously hurt, it is a chance to see them showcase their skills one last time and you can raise a bit of money for charity too, so I'm all for it."

Now The Sun are reporting that Hatton's team are in advanced discussions with the reps of Barrera, although a deal is yet to have been finalised.

The Mexican has not fought professionally since 2011 when he successfully stopped Jose Arias in Guadalajara.

Barrera boasts a record of 67 victories and seven defeats - the last of which came in Manchester against Amir Khan in 2009.

Both fighters were beaten by Manny Pacquiao during the respective careers but never shared