Boxing community mourns Ricky Hatton after tragic passing
Boxing community mourns Ricky Hatton after tragic passing
A 10-bell tribute was held on Monday at the World Boxing Championships in Liverpool to honour former world champion Ricky Hatton, as tributes continue to pour in after his sudden death.
On the eleventh day of the championships at the M&S Bank Arena, an image of Hatton in the ring was displayed in his memory.
According to the BBC, the 46-year-old was discovered dead at his home in Gee Cross, Greater Manchester, on Sunday. Fans have since laid flowers outside his residence as the outpouring of grief continues.
A minute’s applause was also held ahead of Sunday’s Manchester derby at the Etihad Stadium, where Manchester City claimed a 3-0 victory. The crowd responded with a huge cheer after the tribute.
City manager Pep Guardiola hailed Hatton as a “true champion” and “part of the Man City family.”
Former boxer Thomas McDonagh, who runs the Collyhurst and New Moston boxing gym, told BBC Radio Manchester: “Everyone loved Ricky.”
Former British champion Pat Barrett also paid tribute, recalling: “I shared the ring with him before he turned professional, and it was clear he was destined for greatness. He had so much talent and would simply overwhelm you. Ricky was an exciting, explosive fighter.”
Messages of condolence have poured in from across the UK and around the world.
Boxing legend Manny Pacquiao, who defeated Hatton in 2009, described him as “a great fighter in the ring but also a brave and kind man in life.”
In a post, Pacquiao wrote: “We shared unforgettable moments in boxing history, and I will always cherish the respect and sportsmanship he showed. Ricky fought courageously, not only in the ring but throughout his life. He truly lived a good fight, and we are all blessed to have been part of his remarkable journey.”
Former heavyweight world champion Tyson Fury also honoured him on Instagram, writing: “RIP to the legend Ricky Hatton. There will only ever be one Ricky Hatton. Can’t believe this – so young.”
