Manchester bid a poignant farewell to its beloved 'people's champion', Ricky Hatton, as thousands gathered for his funeral on Friday, October 10, 2025. The former boxing world champion, who sadly passed away on October 6, aged 46, was remembered by sports stars, celebrities, and a vast community of fans who lined the streets, many clad in the light blue of his cherished Manchester City Football Club.

The service, held at Manchester Cathedral, saw an outpouring of tributes from the boxing fraternity. Former two-weight world champion Amir Khan hailed Hatton as "a fantastic fighter, one of the best out there," and "one of the greatest to come out of Britain," praising his jolly, respectful, and down-to-earth nature. World heavyweight champions Tyson Fury and Frank Bruno, alongside former featherweight champion Barry McGuigan, were also present to pay their respects. McGuigan emphasized Hatton’s journey from a promising amateur to a world champion who captivated audiences, leading thousands to Las Vegas for iconic bouts. Tony Bellew, a former world cruiserweight champion, shared how Hatton inspired his own career, stating he was in awe of Hatton's training and ability to remain a 'normal person' despite his immense success.

Emotional eulogies from Hatton’s devastated family brought tears to the eyes of those present. His daughters, Ferne, 12, and Millie, 13, bravely addressed the packed cathedral. Millie expressed her heartbreak, lamenting the absence of her father for future milestones like walking her down the aisle or meeting her children, while cherishing memories of singing Oasis songs and pub trips. She fondly recalled him as "the funniest person I’ve ever ever come across." Ferne, just 12, spoke of the profound impact Hatton had in her life, admiring his ability to make "unseen" people feel known and to bring smiles to faces, affirming her unchanging love and pride for him, her "one and only daddy."

Ricky's son, Campbell Hatton, 24, who followed his father into the boxing ring, spoke of their undeniable bond, shared humor, love for Manchester City, and the many cherished memories they created together. He expressed immense pride not only for his father's boxing career and unique fanbase but also for the happiness they shared as a family. Ricky's mother, Carol Hatton, also shared a touching tribute, recalling him as "our little champ from the day he was born" and his philosophy of living life without regrets. She remembered his words: "Mum if I was to die tomorrow, I have lived my life already with no regrets."

The funeral cortege, a two-hour procession, formed Hatton’s "final epic ring walk" through his beloved Manchester. It began at his local pub, the Cheshire Cheese in Hyde, where landlord Tony Cooper described him as "a nice, genuine man" and "home from home." More than 50 friends formed a guard of honour with City flags, and a Reliant Robin (a nod to 'Only Fools and Horses') carrying a wreath spelling 'Ricky' preceded the hearse. The coffin, emblazoned with 'Blue Moon', prompted spontaneous applause and chants of 'there’s only one Ricky Hatton' from thousands of tearful fans.

The route snaked past significant landmarks in Hatton's life, including the AO Arena, site of his iconic 2005 victory over Kostya Tszyu; Hatton’s Gym, opened by Muhammad Ali; Hyde Town Hall; and his childhood home in Hattersley, where he first trained in a pub cellar. The procession concluded at his beloved Etihad Stadium, home of Manchester City. Throughout the journey, streets were adorned with sky blue flags and shirts, as a city united in grief and respect. Local residents and fans shared stories of his approachability and genuine character, emphasizing that he remained 'just Ricky' to his community, despite his global fame.

Celebrities such as Liam Gallagher, Bez, Shaun Ryder, Wayne and Coleen Rooney, and former partner Claire Sweeney were among those who paid their respects, alongside Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham. Speakers outside the cathedral broadcasted the service, featuring the Manchester City anthem 'Blue Moon'. The overwhelming turnout and heartfelt tributes underscored Ricky Hatton's extraordinary legacy as a sportsman who transcended the ring, becoming a true 'People's Champion' who brought his city together in a final, emotional farewell.