Manchester came to a standstill as thousands gathered to honor the life of boxing icon Ricky Hatton at his funeral earlier today. The beloved former world champion, known as "The Hitman," passed away on September 14 at the age of 46, leaving the sporting world in shock.
The funeral procession began with a unique tribute—a Reliant van from the popular sitcom *Only Fools and Horses*, which Hatton, a huge fan of the show, had once purchased for £4,000. The cortege made multiple stops, including Hatton’s local pub, the Cheshire Cheese, and his gym, where fans sang and took pictures amid emotional scenes.
The service at Manchester Cathedral featured heartfelt tributes, including an emotional speech by Hatton’s son, Campbell, who followed his father into boxing. "I’ll cherish the memories we made, though I wish we could’ve made more," Campbell said, reflecting on his father’s influence both in and out of the ring.
Hatton’s mother, Carol, described him as "the People’s Champion," adding, "Long before this accolade, he was our little champion from the day he was born." The cathedral was packed with boxing legends, including Tyson and Tommy Fury, Amir Khan, Frank Bruno, and Anthony Crolla, as well as celebrities like Oasis frontman Liam Gallagher and former England striker Wayne Rooney.
After the service, the cortege made a final stop at the Etihad Stadium, home of Hatton’s beloved Manchester City. The Stockport-born fighter rose to fame with world titles in the light-welterweight and welterweight divisions, facing icons like Floyd Mayweather Jr. and Manny Pacquiao.
The funeral was described as "a service of thanksgiving," celebrating Hatton’s legacy not just as a boxer, but as a devoted family man and Manchester’s own "People’s Champion."
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