The boxing and sporting worlds have come together today to mourn the tragic loss of Ricky Hatton, who was found dead in Greater Manchester at just 46 years of age.
Hatton is being remembered as not just a great fighter and fan favorite who gave a massive jolt to the British boxing scene and took his career into huge fights abroad, but as a kind man, a friend and mentor to those in the sport.
Hatton’s beloved Man City also paid tribute to the fighter for today’s Manchester Derby match against Man United.
“Everybody loved Ricky,” Matchroom promoter Eddie Hearn said.
Queensberry promoter Frank Warren remembered Hatton as, “A superbly talented fighter who inspired a generation of young boxers and fans in a way very few had done before, due to both his personality and the entertainment he provided in the ring.”
Anthony Joshua called Hatton “our British hero,” with Amir Khan thanking Hatton for “(his) fights, moments of glory, and grit.”
Former opponent Manny Pacquiao called Hatton “not only a great fighter inside the ring but also a brave and kind man in life.” Barry McGuigan said of his fellow Hall of Famer, “He was a man of the people and a spectacular fighter. A great man inside the ring and a wonderful man outside of it.”
Bad Left Hook again sends our condolences to the friends, family, and loved ones of the late Ricky “Hitman” Hatton.
