Ricky Hatton is eager for a rematch with Floyd Mayweather, and efforts to lure the American to Wembley next spring have already begun.

Richard Schaefer, chief executive of Golden Boy Promotions, said yesterday that he has received a positive response from Mayweather's camp over a second meeting.

Hatton was comprehensively dispatched in the 10th round by Mayweather in Las Vegas in December, but he is convinved that the referee, Joe Cortez, contributed to his downfall.

Most observers felt Hatton was simply outclassed but the 29-year-old remains determined to avenge the only defeat on his 44-fight record.

"It's very likely that Floyd will come over next spring. Floyd and his manager, Al Hayman, are very serious about it," said Schaefer. "The first fight was great and, while Floyd would have to get past Oscar De Lay Hoya first, he knows Ricky has talked about the referee. He wants to show that he will repeat what happened the first time. That's his motivation.

"Floyd realises that Hatton is the most beloved fighter in the world and for him to come over to Wembley Stadium is making history. For Ricky it's about challenges and it's the same for Floyd. Fighting in front of 100,000 fans would be huge motivation for Floyd."

Plenty of obstacles must be overcome before Hatton and Mayweather can renew their rivalry. Hatton faces Juan Lazcano in Manchester on May 24 and victory could set up a possible showdown against Paul Malignaggi, the International Boxing Federation light-welterweight champion.

Mayweather must overcome De La Hoya, whom he edged out on a split decision last May in the richest bout in boxing history. De La Hoya himself must dispatch Steve Forbes on May 3 to avoid suffering a setback to his plans to meet Mayweather for a second time.

Hatton revealed he needs to face Mayweather again for his own peace of mind as the manner of his solitary defeat continues to gnaw at him. "I want to be involved in big fights," he said. "I wouldn't mind another pop at Floyd because even though he's not in my weight division, I couldn't care less.

"I'd have a go at him because for me it's always been about the challenge. I thought the referee was a little bit harsh when I fought him. The warnings were only coming one way. That resulted in me loosing my cool a bit.

"I'd like another crack at Mayweather on even terms with a referee who is on top of his game. If Mayweather beats me again then I'd say Ricky, now you know', rather than thinking about it all the time."

Hatton also once again dismissed the prospect of a domestic showdown against Junior Witter, insisting: "If Junior was fighting in my back garden I'd shut the curtains."