Manchester City paid tribute to “one of their most loved supporters” when they held a minute’s appreciation on Sunday before the derby against Manchester United to honour Ricky Hatton after his death – with the City manager, Pep Guardiola, saying the news was “tough to wake up to”.
The 46-year-old Hatton, a lifelong City fan, was found dead in his Manchester home on Sunday morning, with police confirming his death was not being treated as suspicious. Guardiola led the tributes to the former world champion boxer.
“It was tough news to wake up to,” the City manager said. “Of course he had success and was world champion, but it’s the loss for his family, his kids – he was a grandad. It’s so tough for everyone.”
During the minute of respect at the Etihad Stadium an image of the Stockport-born Hatton was shown on the arena’s two large screens, accompanied by constant applause and cheers, a visibly emotional announcer reading a moving tribute to Hatton.
City and United players stood on the centre circle, having walked out for the fixture’s 197th staging wearing black armbands as a further mark of condolence. The club stated it was devastated regarding the passing of the former world champion boxer.
Phil Foden, who scored for City on Sunday, told Sky Sports before the match: “My heart obviously goes out to his family, at this hard time. Obviously to hear the news just before a big game is devastating. I’m sure he would have been here today as well, supporting us. Today is for him.”
The City statement read: “Hatton, an icon of British boxing, won world titles at welterweight and light-welterweight, and was viewed by many as one of the most compelling personalities the sport has ever produced. Ricky was one of City’s most loved and revered supporters. He will always be remembered. Everyone at the club would like to send our heartfelt condolences to his family and friends at this difficult time.
“Hatton wore sky blue shorts and used Blue Moon [City’s anthem] as his walkout song throughout his career – and in 2008 he fulfilled another dream when he fought Juan Lazcano at the Etihad Stadium.”
On that memorable May night 17 years ago the Mexican was beaten by a unanimous points decision before 56,000 fans. Hatton entered the ring in a bespoke fat suit to Hi-Ho Silver Lining which played on his liking for food, in a touch of the humour that made him so popular.
