RESURFACED footage of Ricky Hatton gives a glimpse of the brilliant personality the late boxing legend had.
Hatton, 46, was found dead in his Manchester home this morning and his death is not being treated as suspicious.
GettyRicky Hatton has died aged 46[/caption]
Hatton, who held an MBE, had worked as a boxing promoter and trainer since hanging up his gloves after an illustrious career in the ring.
The ‘Hitman’ leaves behind a boxing legacy that saw him hold multiple world champion titles and put on some memorable fights
While his personality always shone through whether he was in a pre-fight press conference, being candid about his struggles with mental health or even during his time on Strictly Come Dancing.
Footage from an old episode of football show Soccer AM shows Hatton’s brilliant tongue-in-cheek sense of humour.
On an episode that aired all the way back in 2002, Hatton joked alongside darts icon Phil Taylor about a “violent” darts game.
Teasing that the pub sport is rougher than stepping in the boxing ring, Hatton said: “I find it a bit violent though, darts.
“Me and Phil [Taylor] went down to the pub the other night, we were playing darts there, they rang the bell for last order and I chinned four of the regulars.”
The gag led to a chorus of laughter in the Soccer AM studio back then and is still remembered fondly to this day.
Sky SportsHatton told a hilarious darts gag alongside Phil Taylor on Soccer AM in 2002[/caption]
AlamyPhil Taylor has paid tribute to Hatton[/caption]
Taylor, 65, paid tribute to Hatton on social media after his heartbreaking death.
He wrote: “Absolutely devastating news about the passing of my mate Ricky Hatton.
“Thoughts go out to all of his family at this horrible time. RIP my friend.”
While another darts star and friend of Hatton’s, James Wade, also paid tribute to his close pal.
He wrote on X: “It is with great sadness to hear the news a dear friend has passed.
“Ricky Hatton a great friend and legendary boxer! Our thoughts and love are with your family and friends during this difficult time.
“The world was a better place with you in it. A true legend has been lost. Rest in peace Ricky.”
His appearance alongside Taylor on Soccer AM came as a result of his love of football and unwavering support of Manchester City.
A whole host of football stars including Wayne Rooney, David Beckham and Michael Owen all took to social media to pay tribute to Hatton after the news of his death.
While Man City even announced that they would be holding a minute’s appreciation and wearing black armbands for the former World Champion during their Premier League clash with Manchester United later today.
A statement read: “Manchester City are devastated to learn Ricky Hatton has passed away, aged 46.
“Ricky was one of City’s most loved and revered supporters, who will always be remembered for a glittering boxing career that saw him win world titles at welterweight and light-welterweight.
“Everyone at the Club would like to send our heartfelt condolences to his family and friends at this difficult time.
“We can confirm there will be a minute’s appreciation ahead of today’s game against Manchester United.”
Hatton was a huge Manchester City fan and will be remembered by the club Creator – [#item_custom_dc:creator]
