Ricky Hatton's funeral draws thousands in Manchester tribute

OLI SCARFF / AFP

Former world heavyweight champion Tyson Fury and Oasis singer Liam Gallagher were among the thousands of mourners who bid farewell to Ricky Hatton as one of Manchester's most beloved sporting figures was laid to rest.

The former world welterweight champion, nicknamed "the Hitman", was found dead in his home on September 14. He was 46.

Thousands of people lined the streets, many waving Manchester City flags and chanting "There's only one Ricky Hatton!" as the funeral cortege set off from The Cheshire Cheese pub, Hatton's local, for the two-hour journey to Manchester Cathedral.

Hatton's body was in a sky blue casket with "Blue Moon" etched on the side, a nod to both his walk-out song and his love for Premier League club City, of whom he was a lifelong fan. Hatton boxed in blue shorts, matching the football club's colours.

"It's a tough time for us all, losing a legend in the sport of boxing, it's just remembering him and being here, showing our respects," Olympic boxing silver medallist Amir Khan, who flew in from Dubai for the funeral, told the BBC at Manchester Cathedral.

"Massive legacy, he was a fighter that we all looked up to."

Hatton won the WBA, IBO and IBF light-welterweight titles and the WBA welterweight world championship during his 15-year professional career before retiring in 2012.

He had been due to make a comeback for an event in Dubai this year.

More from Sports

Coming Up on Dubai Eye

  • The Agenda

    10:00am - 1:00pm

    Broadcasting every weekday, Georgia Tolley goes beyond the headlines to speak to government ministers, decision makers, analysts and local experts to find out how the news will impact those of us living in the UAE.

  • Afternoons with Helen Farmer

    1:00pm - 4:00pm

    Every weekday afternoon, Helen Farmer will help you to navigate the highs and lows of life in the UAE. Stay up to date with what’s happening and where to go.

BUSINESS BREAKFAST LATEST

On Dubai Eye

  • Is There Sufficient House Supply In UAE

    Dubai’s current population is more than double compared to almost twenty years ago, which now stands at 3.7 million. Lots of families are also moving to the UAE now. So what does it mean for the property market?

  • Noon's First Female Delivery Driver

    Glory Ehirim Nkiruka is Noon’s first ever female delivery driver. In her first ever interview, she explained why she loves her job, despite the heat!