- Thousands of fans, family, and sporting stars have gathered in Manchester for the funeral of boxing legend Ricky Hatton, who died last month at 46.
- The 10-mile funeral procession includes a poignant tribute to his favorite TV show, ‘Only Fools and Horses,’ featuring the iconic yellow van.
- Boxing heavyweights like Tyson Fury, Amir Khan, and Tony Bellew are in attendance at Manchester Cathedral to pay their respects.
- Hatton is being remembered as ‘The Pride of Hyde,’ a local hero who united the city and never forgot his roots.
Manchester Unites in Grief for Hatton’s Final Farewell
The city of Manchester has come to a standstill as thousands of mourners line the streets to say a final, heartbreaking goodbye to boxing champion Ricky Hatton. The former world champion, who passed away at the age of 46, is being honored with a 10-mile funeral procession before a service at Manchester Cathedral.
A City Draped in Blue
The procession began in Hatton’s hometown of Hyde, where fans and friends gathered, many wearing the sky blue of his beloved Manchester City. The route is a sea of tributes, from customized T-shirts to flags and scarves. A brass band, which famously followed Hatton around the globe during his career, lightened the sombre mood with a rendition of the “there’s only one Ricky Hatton” chant, a powerful reminder of the social proof of his incredible following.
Stars and Champions Pay Their Respects
The boxing world has turned out in force to honor one of its own. Heavyweight champion Tyson Fury was among the early arrivals, having previously spoken about how Hatton helped him with his own mental health struggles. He was joined by fellow boxers Amir Khan, Tony Bellew, and Frazer Clarke, as well as celebrities like presenter Paddy McGuinness. Khan, who flew from Dubai for the service, told reporters he “needed to be here to show his respects” for the boxing legend.
A Unique Tribute for a Beloved Champion
Leading the procession is a touching and unique tribute: the famous three-wheeled Reliant Robin from ‘Only Fools and Horses.’ Hatton was a massive fan of the comedy show and even owned the vehicle, a detail that confirms his down-to-earth personality which so endeared him to the public. As friends have stated, he was a “hero” and an “inspiration” who, despite his fame, remained a “local lad who had time for everyone.”
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