Manchester Mourns Its Favorite Son

It was a day of deep emotion in Manchester as the city paid tribute to Ricky Hatton, the former world champion whose legacy extended far beyond the boxing ring. The 46-year-old passed away on September 14, leaving behind an enduring impact on British sport.

The funeral procession began at the Cheshire Cheese pub in Hyde, not far from Hatton’s home, where hundreds lined the streets wearing his signature colors. His sky-blue coffin — a nod to Manchester City, the club he passionately supported — was carried by close friends, including his brother Matthew Hatton and longtime manager Paul Speak.

Among those present were heavyweight champion Tyson Fury, former light-welterweight world champion Amir Khan, and former welterweight star Kell Brook, alongside other prominent figures such as Liam Gallagher, the Oasis frontman who once escorted Hatton to the ring.

The cortege stopped at Manchester Cathedral, where 900 guests listened to heartfelt tributes from Hatton’s children — Campbell, Millie, and Fearne — and from his mother, Carol Hatton. The final stop of the ceremony took place at Manchester City’s Etihad Stadium, a fitting venue for the final farewell to the local hero.

The Rise and Glory of “The Hitman”

Known for his relentless style and fierce determination, Ricky Hatton rose from small local shows to global stardom. His defining moment came in 2005 at the Manchester Arena, where he defeated Kostya Tszyu to capture The Ring and IBF junior welterweight titles — a fight that remains one of British boxing’s most memorable nights.

His success carried him across the Atlantic, where tens of thousands of fans followed him to the United States for blockbuster bouts against Luis Collazo, Floyd Mayweather Jr., and Manny Pacquiao. Although his career faced setbacks, Hatton’s charisma, humility, and warrior spirit made him a fan favorite worldwide.

Outside the ring, his struggles were well-documented, but Hatton never lost the admiration of the boxing community. After retiring in 2012 following a final bout against Vyacheslav Senchenko, he reinvented himself as a promoter, trainer, and mentor — even guiding his son Campbell Hatton through a promising 16-fight professional career.

A Legacy That Will Never Fade

Ricky Hatton will forever be remembered not just for his victories, but for his connection with the people — a true man of the fans, who carried Manchester’s grit and warmth into every fight.

Survived by his children Campbell, Millie, and Fearne, granddaughter Lyla, and his parents Carol and Ray, Hatton’s story remains a testament to resilience, loyalty, and love for the sport that defined him.

For the city of Manchester and the world of boxing, “The Hitman” may be gone — but his fighting spirit will live on forever.