15th September 2025
September 15 – A minute’s applause was impeccably held before the Manchester derby in tribute to Ricky Hatton, the former world champion boxer and devoted Manchester City supporter, who has passed away.
Born and raised in Manchester, Hatton, 46, was one of City’s most recognisable fans. His ring walks were typically a blaze of the club’s crest and colours during his glittering career, which saw him capture world titles at welterweight and light-welterweight.
City released a statement before kick-off expressing their sorrow. “Manchester City are devastated to learn Ricky Hatton has passed away, aged 46,” the club said. “Ricky was one of City’s most loved and revered supporters, who will always be remembered for a glittering boxing career. Everyone at the club would like to send our heartfelt condolences to his family and friends at this difficult time.”
Even city rivals Manchester United put aside any derby hostility, posting: “Sending our heartfelt condolences to Ricky’s loved ones on the loss of a legend of our city.”
Tributes poured in from across football and beyond. City great and former captain, Vincent Kompany shared a photo alongside Hatton and Oasis frontman Liam Gallagher, while the Bayern Munich head coach added: “We’ll miss you Ricky. Our thoughts are with the family and friends. Rest in peace legend.”
Wayne Rooney, the Red Devils all-time top scorer and pugilist officando, posted a picture with Hatton inside the ring, calling him “a legend, a warrior, and a great person.”
City midfielder Phil Foden admitted the news hit hard just before the derby. “My heart obviously goes out to his family,” he told Sky Sports. “I’m sure he would have been here today supporting us. Today is for him.”
Manager Pep Guardiola echoed the sentiment: “For the Manchester City family, it was tough. A big, big loss for his family, the boxing world, and of course for City.”
City honoured Hatton’s memory on the pitch with a convincing 3-0 win that would’ve made the ‘Hit Man’ smile.
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