Iconic boxer Ricky Hatton will be laid to rest today after the former world welterweight and light-welterweight champion was found dead at his home in Hyde, Greater Manchester, last month at the age of 46, prompting nationwide mourning.
A procession will commence at Gee Cross, passing through Hyde to Manchester Cathedral. Following a private service, the cortege will proceed to the Etihad Stadium, the cherished home of Manchester City, which Hatton supported.
The Cheshire Cheese pub on Stockport Road in Hyde will signify the start of the procession around 9:45 am, continuing to Harehill Tavern. Several stops will include The New Inn, where doves will be released, Hatton’s Gym, Hyde Town Hall, Betta Bodies Gym, and the AO Arena.
A private memorial service will take place at the Cathedral starting at 12 pm. Subsequently, the procession will head to the Etihad Stadium, where a touching tribute moved the boxer’s son, Campbell, before the match against Burnley.
The public will have the opportunity to pay their respects as the funeral cortege proceeds to the cathedral, although the service itself will remain private.
The day concludes with the funeral, highlighting the global fondness and admiration for Ricky Hatton, who will forever be remembered as a champion. Barry McGuigan, among other boxing icons, paid tribute to Hatton, emphasizing the lasting impact he had on the sport.
Despite the tragic circumstances surrounding Hatton’s passing, loved ones have established the Ricky Hatton Foundation, a mental health charity dedicated to supporting individuals in need. The charity aims to raise awareness of mental health issues and reduce the stigma associated with mental illness.
The funeral service featured emotional tributes from family members, including Hatton’s daughters Millie and Fearne and son Campbell, who shared heartfelt memories and expressed their deep sense of loss. The event was attended by various celebrities and fans, underscoring Hatton’s enduring legacy as a beloved figure in the boxing world.
Applause filled the air as Ricky Hatton’s coffin was carried into the cathedral, accompanied by his signature walk-on song “Blue Moon,” evoking poignant emotions among family and friends in attendance.