RICKY HATTON, 1978-2025: ‘A great man inside ring and outside’

McGuigan joins stars paying tribute to legend

- 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.

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."

Irish sports stars paid tribute to the former world champion.

Olympic gold medallist Michael Carruth said that young boxers looked up to the boxer.

He said: "I was just shocked when my brother told me he was dead. I couldn't believe it. I knew him and was on the same card as him down the years.

PREPARATION

"He was a role model to a lot of young people in this country and in the UK as well, and I'm sure they will be all devastated at his passing."