Ricky Hatton insists he would only return to the ring to prove a point to himself after his last bout ended in a second-round knockout by Manny Pacquiao.

The Mancunian has recently been linked with a bout against Mexican Juan Manuel Marquez but the three-weight world champion insists he would not take the fight for financial reasons.

"I don't need to fight for money, and I don't say that arrogantly," the 31-year-old told The Sun.

"Any comeback is going to be about proving a point to myself - and not ending my career flat on my back.

"In this game money is a big factor but my circumstances are a bit more important than money right now."

Golden Boy Promotions CEO Richard Schaefer says he has already spoken with Gareth Williams, Hatton's lawyer and promotional partner, about a showdown with Marquez and that could interest the Hitman.

"I need someone to sink my teeth into and Marquez fits the bill," Hatton added.