Ricky Hatton Remembered: Boxing Legend Laid to Rest in Emotional Manchester Service
Table of Contents
A moving funeral service for boxing icon Ricky Hatton was held at Manchester Cathedral on Thursday, following a procession through the city that drew thousands of mourners. The beloved fighter, known as “The hitman,” passed away at his home in Denton, Greater Manchester, on october 28th, aged 45. The atmosphere was one of profound sadness as family, friends, and fans gathered to celebrate the life of a man who transcended the sport of boxing. Hatton’s impact extended far beyond the ring, earning him the affectionate title of “The People’s Champion.” According to a statement read on behalf of Hatton’s mother, Carol, “‘The Hitman’ was adored by his army of fans… and he would say that’s how he would want to be remembered.”
The procession began with a unique tribute to Hatton’s playful personality: his coffin was led by the iconic three-wheeled Reliant Regal van from the British sitcom Only Fools and Horses. A devoted fan of the show, Hatton famously purchased one of the original vans for £4,000 and often drove it around his hometown. The cortege paused at the Cheshire Cheese pub, Hatton’s local, where mourners offered a round of applause as it passed at 09:45 BST.
tributes from Family and Sporting Greats
During the service at Manchester Cathedral, Hatton’s son, Campbell Hatton, a boxer himself, delivered a heartfelt eulogy.”I can’t explain how much I’m going to miss you, dad, and that we won’t be making any new memories – but the ones we did I will cherish forever,” he shared, adding that his admiration for his father extended beyond boxing, encompassing “the way he carried himself out of the ring… fuelled by the love I had and always will have for him.”
The cathedral was filled with luminaries from the boxing world and beyond. Among those in attendance were boxers Frazer Clarke and Natasha Jonas, former champions Amir Khan, Scott Welch, Frank Bruno, Barry McGuigan, and Anthony Crolla. Hatton’s former trainer, Billy Graham, was also present.
The outpouring of support extended beyond boxing. Liam Gallagher of Oasis, former England and Manchester United striker Wayne Rooney and his wife Coleen, and boxers Tyson and Tommy Fury were all present to pay their respects. Other notable attendees included Happy Mondays’ Shaun Ryder and Mark “Bez” Berry, reality TV personality Calum best, comedian Paddy mcguinness, former cricket star andrew “Freddie” Flintoff, and actor Dean Gaffney.
A Final Journey Through Hatton’s World
Following the service, the procession continued to locations significant to Hatton’s life. Stops were made at the harehill Tavern, where doves were released in his honor at The New Inn, and at Hatton’s Gym, where fans gathered to sing and share memories. The procession culminated at the Etihad Stadium, home of Manchester City, the football club Hatton passionately supported.
Hatton’s career saw him rise to prominence in both the light-welterweight and welterweight divisions, facing formidable opponents such as Kostya Tszyu, Floyd Mayweather Jr, and Manny Pacquiao. He leaves behind a legacy not only as a skilled and courageous fighter, but as a beloved figure who captured the hearts of fans with his charisma and unwavering spirit.
