The funeral of boxing legend Ricky Hatton will take place today, Friday October 10. Known through his career as the formidable “Hitman”, he left an undeniable mark on the sporting world and beyond. Hatton will be laid to rest at Manchester Cathedral.
The boxer was found dead at his home in Gee Cross on Sunday, September 14, aged 46. The Stockport-born fighter, who would have turned 47 in October, had spoken openly about his struggles with mental health and drug addiction throughout his career, inspiring many others to speak out and seek help.
An illustrious boxing career saw the Manchester City supporter win multiple world championships and UK titles. In 2015, he was named boxer of the year and had been set to return to the ring this year, a fight was arranged for December 2 in Dubai.
Since the untimely death of Hatton, an outpouring of love and tributes have been left. Thousands of messages on social media recalled the immense talent he had and how he had shaped British boxing forever, others mentioned the kind and caring person he was and others left flowers, boxing gloves and Manchester City scarves outside of his Hyde home.
Fans will have the chance to pay their respects as the funeral procession makes its way towards Manchester Cathedral today. On Instagram this afternoon, an official memorial route has been shared. The route will start from Gee Cross, Hyde to the Manchester Cathedral then on to the Etihad Stadium.
Full details for the funeral procession are:
- Start: Cheshire Cheese, Gee Cross, Hyde
- Pause: Harehill Tavern
- Pause: The New Inn for Dove Release
- Pause: Hatton’s Gym
- Pass: Hyde Town Hall
- Pass: Betta Bodies Gym
- Pass: AO Arena
- Arrive: Manchester Cathedral
- After memorial, continue to the Etihad Stadium
While fans will be able to remember Hatton outside of the cathedral and along the procession route, entry into the Manchester Cathedral service will be by invitation only.
A tribute released by the family of Hatton after his death, said: “We are all distraught at the events of recent days. To all our knowledge, despite his well-documented struggles, Richard was in a good place.
“He was excited for the future, his bag was packed ready to go to Dubai to promote a comeback fight and he was planning a celebration in Dubai of which his beloved girls Millie and Fearne were to be the centre of.”
The family also acknowledged the outpouring of love and support that has been sent to the family and to the boxer. They said the support shows how much Richard was loved and it will be something that gives them comfort and pride.
There will be thousands of people lining the streets of Manchester tomorrow to pay their respects to the boxing great, who leaves behind a lasting legacy. His ex-partner Claire Sweeney, known for roles in Brookside and Coronation Street also paid tribute to Hatton.
She said: “I’ve needed a few days to process the devastating news about my dear friend Ricky. My thoughts are with his family especially his children Campbell, Millie Fearne and Lyla, his granddaughter.
“To them, Speaky and to all his friends who loved him so deeply and for so many years I send you my deepest sympathy. Ricky, you were the people’s champ. We adored and cherished you. Love you always.”