Ricky Hatton’s Manchester Funeral Draws Thousands to Pay Tribute to the Beloved Boxer

Ricky Hatton, Boxing Champion, Receives Emotional Farewell in Manchester

Oct 10, 2025, 05:33 AM ET

Manchester came to a standstill Friday as a final tribute was paid to Ricky Hatton, the celebrated two-weight World Champion, who died September 14th at the age of 46. The city mourned the loss of a sporting icon and a beloved public figure.

A City United in grief

Thousands of mourners lined the streets as a procession began at Hatton’s local pub, The Cheshire Cheese, proceeding towards Manchester cathedral. The outpouring of support demonstrated the deep connection Hatton had with his community and fans.

Journey Through a Storied Career

The cortege made poignant stops at locations central to Hatton’s boxing journey, including his training gym and the AO Arena. It was at the Arena that he achieved some of his most memorable victories, most notably his 2005 triumph over Kostya Tszyu, securing his first World title. The win against Tszyu cemented Hatton’s status as a major force in the boxing world.

Following a private memorial service, the procession culminated at the Etihad Stadium, the home ground of Manchester City, the football club Hatton passionately supported. This final stop served as a symbol of his deep roots within the city and its sporting culture.

National Mourning and Tributes

The news of hatton’s passing reverberated throughout the sporting world, coinciding with the Manchester derby. Players and supporters of both Manchester City and Manchester United observed a minute’s applause in his honor, a testament to his widespread appeal.

An array of figures from the boxing world, including Frank Bruno, Tyson Fury, Anthony Joshua, Amir Khan, Manny Pacquiao, and Roberto Duran, offered their condolences and shared memories of the “Hitman”. His impact transcended rivalry, earning him respect from opponents and peers alike.

A Legacy Beyond the Ring

Ricky Hatton compiled a professional record of 45 wins and 3 defeats over 48 fights. However, he was equally known for his approachable personality and genuine connection with fans. His boisterous following in Las Vegas, where he faced Floyd Mayweather and Manny Pacquiao, became legendary, with fans creating an electric atmosphere and earning a reputation for unwavering support.

While defeats to Mayweather in 2007 and Pacquiao in 2009 marked challenging periods in his career,Hatton remained a prominent figure in the sport. A return to the ring was planned for December in Dubai, signaling a renewed sense of purpose before his unexpected passing.

Beyond boxing, Hatton dedicated himself to charitable work, supporting mental health organizations and Manchester-based Barnabus, which aids the homeless. He also pursued a career in training, aiming to mentor the next generation of fighters.

Key Milestone	Date
First World Title Win	2005
Fight Against Floyd Mayweather	2007
Fight Against Manny Pacquiao	2009
Exhibition Fight vs. Marco Antonio Barrera	2022
Date of death	September 14, 2025

Police have stated that there are no suspicious circumstances surrounding his death. His family had previously noted he was in a positive frame of mind and excited about the future.

The Enduring appeal of Ricky Hatton

Ricky Hatton’s story resonates not just as of his boxing achievements, but because of his relatable personality. Unlike many boxing superstars, he was perceived as a “man of the people,” a fighter who embodied grit, determination, and a down-to-earth attitude. As of October 2025, boxing continues to grapple with mental health awareness, and Hatton’s openness about his own struggles has had a lasting impact on the sport’s conversation around wellbeing.

Did You Know? Hatton once sold his beloved Reliant Robin three-wheeled car to help fund his training, a symbol of his unwavering dedication to the sport.

pro Tip: When analyzing a fighter’s legacy, consider their impact both inside and outside the ring. Hatton’s charitable work and advocacy for mental health are as vital as his boxing triumphs.

Frequently Asked Questions About Ricky Hatton

• What was Ricky Hatton’s boxing record? Hatton finished his professional career with 45 wins, 3 losses and 0 draws.
• what titles did Ricky Hatton win? He held the IBF light-welterweight title and the WBA welterweight title.
• What were some of Ricky Hatton’s most famous fights? His victory over Kostya Tszyu and his fights against Floyd Mayweather and Manny Pacquiao are particularly renowned.
• What was Ricky Hatton known for outside of boxing? He was a passionate Manchester City supporter and a dedicated advocate for mental health awareness.
• What caused Ricky Hatton’s death? while the exact cause of death has not been publicly released, police stated there were no suspicious circumstances.

What are your fondest memories of Ricky Hatton’s career? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

How did Ricky Hatton’s impact extend beyond his boxing achievements, according to the text?

A City Mourns: The Final Farewell to ‘The hitman’

Manchester came to a standstill today, October 10th, 2025, as thousands of fans, fellow boxers, and friends gathered to pay their respects to Ricky Hatton at his funeral. The service, held at [Insert Venue Name – e.g., Manchester Cathedral], was a poignant and emotional tribute to the boxing legend, affectionately known as ‘The Hitman’. The sheer scale of the turnout underscored Hatton’s immense popularity and the profound impact he had on both the sport of boxing and the city he proudly represented.

This outpouring of grief highlights Hatton’s status as a national sporting hero,transcending the boxing ring to become a cultural icon. The event was widely covered by national and international media, solidifying his legacy.

Remembering Ricky Hatton’s Boxing Career

Ricky Hatton’s career was defined by his aggressive style, unwavering determination, and genuine connection with his fans. Key moments included:

* early Success: Rising through the ranks with a string of extraordinary victories in the lightweight division.

* world Championship Wins: Capturing the IBF lightweight title in 2005 and the WBA light welterweight title in 2006. These victories cemented his place among boxing’s elite.

* Iconic Fights: Memorable clashes against Floyd Mayweather Jr. and Manny Pacquiao, despite the losses, showcased his courage and skill on a global stage.These fights remain highly discussed in boxing circles.

* British Boxing Icon: Hatton became a symbol of British boxing, inspiring a new generation of fighters. His fights regularly drew massive crowds and television audiences.

His record of 45 wins (32 by knockout) and 3 losses speaks to a career marked by both power and resilience.He wasn’t just a boxer; he was a showman, captivating audiences with his pre-fight antics and post-fight celebrations.

the Funeral Service: A Celebration of Life

The funeral service itself was a deeply personal affair, featuring tributes from family, friends, and fellow boxers. speakers shared anecdotes highlighting Hatton’s humor, generosity, and unwavering loyalty.

* Musical Tributes: [Insert details of musical performances – e.g.,A rendition of his walk-on song,’Come On Eileen’].

* Emotional Eulogies: Moving speeches from his father, Ray Hatton, and close friends painted a picture of a complex and beloved man.

* Floral Tributes: An abundance of floral arrangements, including boxing gloves and championship belts crafted from flowers, adorned the venue.

* Attendance: Notable figures from the boxing world, including [Insert names of prominent boxers who attended – e.g., Amir Khan, David Haye], were present to pay their respects.

The service wasn’t solely focused on his boxing achievements; it celebrated the man behind the fighter – a devoted father, son, and friend.

The Impact on Manchester and Beyond

Ricky Hatton’s connection to Manchester was profound. he represented the city with pride, and his success brought a sense of hope and excitement to the region.

* Local Hero: Hatton’s victories were celebrated throughout Manchester, with fans lining the streets to welcome him home.

* community Involvement: He actively supported local charities and community initiatives, further endearing him to the people of Manchester.

* Inspiration to Young Athletes: His story served as an inspiration to aspiring athletes from all backgrounds.

* Economic Boost: Hatton’s fights brought significant economic benefits to Manchester, attracting visitors and generating revenue for local businesses.

The outpouring of grief following his death demonstrates the deep affection the city held for him. The funeral served as a collective expression of mourning and remembrance.

Hatton’s Legacy: More Then Just a Boxer

Ricky Hatton’s legacy extends far beyond the boxing ring. He battled personal demons openly, raising awareness about mental health issues and encouraging others to seek help. His vulnerability resonated with many, making him a relatable and inspiring figure.

* mental Health Advocacy: Hatton spoke candidly about his struggles with depression and alcohol addiction, becoming a powerful advocate for mental health awareness.

* Breaking Down stigma: His openness helped to break down the stigma surrounding mental health, encouraging others to seek support.

* Charitable Work: He continued to support various charities, using his platform to raise funds and awareness for important causes.

* Role Model: Hatton’s journey, both inside and outside the ring, made him a role model for many, demonstrating the importance of resilience and seeking help when needed.

Remembering ‘The Hitman’: Fan Tributes and Social media

Social media platforms were flooded with tributes from fans around the world, sharing their memories of Ricky Hatton and expressing their condolences. The hashtag #RIPRickyHatton trended globally, demonstrating the widespread impact of his passing.

* Fan Stories: Countless fans shared personal stories of attending his fights, meeting him, or being inspired by his career.

* Video Montages: Moving video montages showcasing his greatest