Anthony Crolla would love to lead boxing fans back to Las Vegas if he defeats Jorge Linares in their world title rematch. The Mancunian will attempt to regain the WBA lightweight belt in his second fight with Linares at Manchester Arena this Saturday. Crolla could earn a bill-topping fight in America if he avenges his points defeat to Linares and would love to follow in the footsteps of another local hero in Ricky Hatton.
"I certainly believe there's another chapter or two left in this story," Crolla told. "There's a lot of people saying they want this Vegas trip, or something like that, and its something I'd be very proud to do. Obviously coming from Manchester and seeing what Ricky Hatton did with how many he took over - listen I don't want to compare myself to that because that's a once in a lifetime thing - but I'd love to be a part of something like that."
"For me, walking out in front of that arena each and every time is so special. Jorge Linares is all I'm focusing on, but beat him and it's only going to grow. It's only going to get bigger and bigger."
Back in 2014, Crolla suffered serious head injuries in a clash with burglars, but battled back to claim the WBA title with a fifth-round stoppage of Darleys Perez. The 30-year-old has also put five defeats firmly behind him and believes he is a product of his tough career.
"It's been crazy, there's been ups, there's been downs," said Crolla. "There's been more downs, than there's been ups - it's been a real roller-coaster. That doesn't do it justice but those tough times - I wouldn't change them. At the time, it may have felt like I'd never come back from them, but that sort of made me the person and the fighter that I am today."
