Manchester City celebrates the memories of boxing legend Ricky Hatton with a minute of applause before Sunday’s match against Manchester United following his tragic death at the age of 46.
Additionally, both teams will wear black armbands as a mark to honor one of Manchester’s most famous sportsmen. Known as “Hitman,” Hatton is a double-heavy world champion and is remembered with a passionate fan base as one of the most charismatic and talented fighters the UK has ever seen.
A spokesman for the Greater Manchester Police said: “The officer was called by a public member to attend Hyde, Bowl Cleri Road, at 6:45am today, when the body of a 46-year-old man was found. It is not currently considered a suspicious situation.”
Hatton, who stepped into the ring professionally in 2012, had an impressive record, winning 45 out of 48 professional fights. He was scheduled to make a comeback at an exhibition match held in Dubai this December.
One of his most memorable victories was The Men Arena, who defeated Kostya Tszyu in 2005 to become the world champion.
The tributes are flooded, and news of Hutton’s death has shocked the world of sports. Former city defender Mika Richards shared a heartwarming story about Hutton before the Manchester Derby.
Speaking about Sky Sports, he said:
“Most importantly, he was a man of people. The nicest guy ever. I remember going to one of his gyms. I was a little nervous because I really didn’t know about boxing.
“He was just a deep guy with him talking about beer and football and life over and over again to take the time and effort. He was very deep. He anticipated a lot, and the news is just devastating.
“It ruined my mood all day. He was here today and celebrated. He had a box here many times.
“Getting this news feels surreal now. For people who are so young that it’s going to happen now, it’s devastating.”
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