Ricky will never be forgotten

Sport stars pay tributes to ring legend

- ANDY LINES, HOLLIE BONE, DAN WARBURTON, KENZI DEVINE and JEREMY ARMSTRONG

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 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 - who grew up in a pub on the Hattersley council estate 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 told the Mirror: "It's a big loss for the boxing worldhe's gone but will really never be forgotten." The former light-welterweight and welterweight world champion, who was awarded an MBE for services to sport in 2007, had often spoken of his struggles with mental health and drug addiction.

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

PREPARATION

One source close to the star said: "He had not shown up for a couple of gatherings and had been very distant. He seemed a bit down and that led to his friends being worried about him."

As news of the fighter's death broke, fellow ring star Tyson Fury simply said: "There will only be one Ricky Hatton." Former Liverpool striker Michael Owen added: "RIP Ricky Hatton. What a guy. And what a fighter. Incredibly sad news" Radio 2 host Paddy McGuinness was shocked and upset as he shared the news with listeners.