A great man inside ring and outside

Sporting stars pay tribute to legend of the ring

- BY ANDY LINES, PAT FLANAGAN AND EAMON DOGGETT

THE sporting world was in shock yesterday after the death of Ricky Hatton aged 46, with celebrity friends paying tribute to the boxing legend who fought a brave mental health battle outside the ring.

The Hitman was found dead at his home in Hyde, Greater Manchester, after concerns were raised when he he didn't show up at a boxing match and also missed a planned gym session.

There was a minute's applause at the Manchester derby as the former world champion's face was shown on the giant screen.

He had been expected to watch his beloved Manchester City play their United rivals.

It remained unclear how Hatton died but police said there were no suspicious circumstances. Officers attended his home at 6.45am after a call from the public.

His former promoter Kellie Maloney said: “It's a big loss for the boxing world - he’s gone but will really never be forgotten.”

The former light-welterweight and welterweight world champion had often spoken of his struggles with mental health and drug addiction.

Hatton had missed meetings with his closest friends in recent weeks, leading to concerns for his welfare.