Ricky Hatton’s funeral plans have been made public, which will include a procession to allow fans to pay their final respects.
The service for the former light-welterweight and welterweight champion will be held at Manchester Cathedral at midday on October 10. Hatton was found dead at his home on September 14, at the age of 46, sending shockwaves through the boxing community. While entry to the service inside the Cathedral will be restricted to invited guests only, fans are encouraged to gather outside to celebrate the life of the late boxer.
Hatton left a big mark on the sport, not only for his two-weight world champion status but also for his life outside the ring. He was a vocal mental health advocate, openly discussing his struggles with substance abuse. His passing is especially poignant given that he was reportedly planning a return to boxing in December.
“Richard was so much more than a world champion. To us he was simply ‘Richard’, our son. A loving father, grandfather, and brother, and a true friend to many. He had a heart as big as his smile, and his kindness, humour and loyalty touched everyone who was lucky enough to know him. “To the wider world, Richard will always be remembered as one of boxing’s greatest champions – a man who gave everything inside the ring and wore his heart on his sleeve outside of it.
“He inspired generations with his fighting spirit, his humility, and his love for the sport. But beyond the titles, the nights to remember, and the roar of the crowd, he remained the same down-to-earth Richard who never forgot where he came from.
“As a family, our loss is immeasurable, and words cannot truly capture the pain we feel. Yet in the midst of our grief, we have been deeply moved by the overwhelming outpouring of love and support. It has been a source of great comfort to see just how many lives Richard touched, and how widely he was admired and respected.
“At this time, we kindly ask for privacy as we come to terms with life without him. In the days and weeks ahead, we will take strength from one another and from the knowledge that Richard’s legacy – both in boxing and as a man – will continue to live on. Richard’s memory will forever remain in our hearts, in the hearts of his fans, and in the sport he loved so dearly,” Hatton family statement
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