Ricky Hatton's dream of meeting Floyd Mayweather for a second time moved a step closer today when it was revealed that the American is considering a rematch at Wembley Stadium next year.

Mayweather won the first contest with a 10th-round stoppage in Las Vegas last December but Hatton feels Joe Cortez, the referee, contributed to the only defeat on his 44-fight record. In reality, Mayweather was comfortably superior throughout the contest and Hatton showed little to suggest a second meeting would provide a different outcome.

The Mancunian's next assignment is against Juan Lazcano, of Mexico, on May 24 while Mayweather is scheduled to resume his rivalry with Oscar De La Hoya on September 20. But Richard Schaefer, the chief executive of Golden Boy promotions, revealed today that discussions over luring Mayweather to London have already begun.

"It's very likely that Floyd will come over next spring. Floyd and his manager Al Hayman are very serious about it," Schaefer said. "The first fight was great and while Floyd would have to get past Oscar first, he knows that 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."

Explore More Sport

• Cycling

• Athletics

• Sailing

• US Sport