In Manchester, Ricky Hatton was bid farewell: Thousands of fans came to say goodbye to the boxer.

Farewell to Ricky Hatton

According to The Sun: Boxing legend Ricky Hatton is being laid to rest today at an emotional memorial service in Manchester.

Hundreds of fans have gathered in the streets to bid farewell to 'Hitman' through his hometown.

The procession continues Sky News Zenpix

Touching messages have been left on scarves, football jerseys, and boxing gloves outside Hatton's gym in Hyde.

The 46-year-old boxing legend was tragically found dead in his home on September 14.

On Wednesday, Ricky's son Campbell shared a heartfelt tribute on the day his father would have turned 47:

“Happy birthday, wish we were spending it together”

.

Campbell, who has also become a professional boxer just like his father, shared that his father's death has left the family 'shocked'.

Procession and Memorial

The procession began today at 9:45 AM at the Cheshire Cheese pub, near Hatton's home in Hyde. Ricky will pass by his gym and the Manchester Arena on his final journey to Manchester Cathedral, where a memorial service will be held at 12:00 PM.

During the service, numerous fans will gather in the streets to honor his memory.

The procession ends at the Etihad Stadium – the favored sports venue of Ricky, where he supported the Manchester City team.

City organized a memorial event for Ricky during a match against United, which they won 3-0, shortly after his death.

Flowers were also laid at his regular spot, and a banner reading “The People’s Champion” was hung under one of the goals.

Ricky's manager, Paul Speak, found the boxer's body when he came to check on him as Hatton had not shown up for a boxing event.

The police arrived at his home in Hyde, Greater Manchester, shortly before 7 AM, and the death is not being treated as suspicious.

Ricky was awarded an MBE in 2007 and worked as a promoter and trainer after his athletic career.

During his successful 15-year career, Ricky won four world championships in lightweight and welterweight.

He will be remembered as one of the best British boxers of his generation, having had intense fights against the most notable opponents in history.

His death came just months after announcing his comeback in the ring with a fight against Aysa Al Dakh in December in Dubai.

Friends and fans spent the day laying flowers outside the athlete's home and leaving poignant notes in memory of the Manchester legend.

Many famous figures like Tyson Fury, Anthony Joshua, Amir Khan, and Piers Morgan expressed their condolences and support for Ricky's relatives.

Reuters Reuters PA // Short summary: Ricky Hatton remained a symbol of boxing and sporting pride in Great Britain, capturing the attention of fans and professionals worldwide. His contribution to the sport and his popularity in the ring made him not only a familiar face but also a symbol for boxing fans. His farewell was a powerful testament to his impact on the sports community and the memory of a legend that will always remain in the hearts of fans.