'Ricky Hatton was our hero. He showed good things come from Hyde too'

On Manchester derby day, the atmosphere in Ricky Hatton’s local pub was heavy with sadness following the news of the 46-year-old boxing champion’s death at his home in Gee Cross, Tameside. Regulars at the Queen Adelaide pub, where Hatton often shared laughs over a pint of Guinness, struggled to process the loss. His friend and landlord, Simon Boot, fondly remembered him as a humble, approachable four-time world champion who truly represented Hyde positively. Alison, Simon’s wife, recalled Hatton’s warmth, especially around their family, noting that he was someone who could just be himself. Lyndon Boot, Simon’s brother, expressed disbelief at the news, sharing memories of Hatton’s cheerful personality. Despite the grief, discussions about celebrating Hatton’s life emerged, with Simon proclaiming that his funeral would be a monumental event, perhaps even needing space at the Etihad stadium.

Read the full article at Manchester Evening News