Stewart WhittinghamNorth West
PA MediaA 10-bell salute to Ricky Hatton was made at the World Boxing Championships as more tributes continue to flood in for the star.
An image of The Hitman in the ring was also displayed on the eleventh day of the championships at the M&S Bank Arena in Liverpool.
The 46-year-old fighter was found dead at his home in Gee Cross, Greater Manchester, on Sunday.
The former world champion’s family have also paid tribute saying Hatton’s heart was “as big as his smile”.
PA MediaFans have left flowers outside his home and gym as people continue to pay their respects.
A minute’s applause was held before Sunday’s Manchester derby at the Etihad Stadium in which Hatton’s team secured a comprehensive 3-0 victory.
A huge roar went up around the stadium after the minute’s applause.
City manager Pep Guardiola said Hatton was a “true champion” and “part of the Man City family”.
Former boxer Thomas McDonagh, who runs Collyhurst and New Moston boxing gym, told BBC Radio Manchester: “Everyone loved Ricky.
“He was one of the boys.
“Ricky from the council estate up the road made it all the way to Las Vegas.”
Former British boxing champion Pat Barrett also said: “I shared the ring with him before he turned pro and you could tell he was going to make it.
“He was a bag of talent who would overwhelm you.
“He was an exciting, explosive fighter.”
PA MediaOther tributes have come in from across the UK and the wider world.
Boxing great Manny Pacquiao, who inflicted Hatton’s second career defeat in 2009, described him as a “great fighter inside the ring but also a brave and kind man in life”.
The Filipino posted: “We shared unforgettable moments in boxing history and I will always honour the respect and sportsmanship he showed.
“Ricky fought bravely, not just in the ring, but in his journey through life. He truly had a good fight and we are all blessed to have been part of his wonderful journey.”
PA MediaFormer heavyweight world champion Tyson Fury wrote on Instagram: “RIP to the legend Ricky Hatton.
“There will only ever be one Ricky Hatton. Can’t believe this – so young.”
Former England and Man United footballer Wayne Rooney, who carried Hatton’s belts into the ring before a fight with Jose Luis Castillo in 2007, said on X he was “devastated” and Hatton was “a legend, a warrior and a great person”.
