Manchester Bids Farewell to Boxing Legend Ricky Hatton: A Champion’s Final Journey
Manchester united in grief as thousands gather to honor boxing icon Ricky Hatton. The emotional procession, attended by sports stars and celebrities, celebrated the life of the 'People’s Champion' whose legacy transcends the ring.
A Champion’s Final Journey
Manchester Cathedral hosted an emotional farewell to Ricky 'The Hitman' Hatton on [date], as thousands lined the streets to honor the two-weight world champion. The funeral procession featured Hatton’s beloved Only Fools and Horses Reliant Regal van – a nod to his working-class roots and trademark humor.
Sporting Royalty Pays Respects
- Boxing icons: Tyson Fury, Amir Khan, and Frank Bruno joined Hatton’s son Campbell in attendance
- Football legends: Wayne Rooney and Manchester City’s Mike Summerbee represented Hatton’s sporting passions
- Music stars: Oasis frontman Liam Gallagher and Happy Mondays’ Shaun Ryder added Mancunian flair
Legacy Beyond the Ring
Career Highlights
| Division | Titles Won | Historic Fights |
|---|---|---|
| Light-Welterweight | IBF, WBA, IBO | Defeated Kostya Tszyu |
| Welterweight | WBA | Fought Mayweather Jr. |
Community Impact
- Founded Hatton Academy to nurture young boxing talent
- Raised £500k+ for mental health charities through exhibition matches
- Named 'Manchester’s Favorite Son' in 2022 civic honors
The Procession’s Poignant Stops
- Cheshire Cheese Pub: Childhood local where fans sang Blue Moon
- Hatton’s Gym: Emotional pause at his training ground since 2005
- Etihad Stadium: Final tribute at Manchester City’s home ground
"He wasn’t just a boxer – he was Manchester’s heartbeat in gloves." – Local fan interviewed by BBC
Memorial Service Highlights
- White dove release symbolizing peace
- Campbell Hatton’s tearful eulogy: "Your lessons live in every jab I throw"
- 21-bell salute representing his championship rounds
Thousands line Manchester streets to honor Hatton
Deportes Quindio
08:00 Colombia, Primera B - Finalización, Round 14
08:00
Tigres
Sharjah SC
21:05 UAE, UAE Pro League, Round 6
21:05
Al Dhafra
Fulham
00:30 England, Premier League, Round 8
00:30
Arsenal
Angers
01:00 France, Ligue 1, Round 8
01:00
Monaco
Olympique de Marseille
03:05 France, Ligue 1, Round 8
03:05
Le Havre
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