Ricky Hatton, the legendary Mancunian boxer, received a fitting send-off at the AO Arena as an all-star lineup of musicians, comedians, boxers, and TV presenters paid tribute to his life and career. The event, titled 'An Evening4Ricky', celebrated not only his boxing achievements but also his roles as a father, brother, and son, with family members sharing poignant memories.
A Star-Studded Tribute
The 'Las Vegas-style' celebration featured a reimagined boxing stage and a series of entertainment 'rounds'. The night began with a spine-tingling rendition of 'Stand by Me' as images of Hatton's life flashed on screen. MC John McDonald set the tone, saying, "It's about more than titles, it's about celebrating the man behind them." Hosts Stacey Copeland and Adam Smith shared heartfelt memories, with Smith adding, "Ricky f****** loved to party too."
Emotional Moments
Campbell Hatton, Ricky's son, was visibly moved as he opened the show, struggling to speak. "He's the reason I get in the ring," he said, drawing tears from the crowd. Boxing legend Frank Bruno MBE entered the ring in a personalized robe, followed by Carl Froch, Steph Houghton MBE, darts star Phil 'The Power' Taylor, and Paddy McGuinness. Froch called Hatton a "legend of the game," while Houghton said he "embodied what Manchester is all about." McGuinness demanded a statue of Hatton in the city centre, met with rapturous applause.
Fighters Reflect
Tony Bellew reflected on Hatton's intensity: "I've never seen anybody train with that intensity. Everything he did was intense, he even partied intense. There will never be another Ricky Hatton." Paul Pashley performed James' 'Sit Down' and Dean Martin's 'That's Amore', getting the crowd on their feet.
WBC Tribute and Performances
A new WBC belt in Hatton's name was awarded to Dalton Smith, who said, "Ricky's been a legend since growing up. This is a world title itself for me." Tony Walsh delivered a moving poem, speaking of Hatton's humanity: "Our hitmen turn out to be human. Our heroes are humans." Music stars Rowetta performed 'Crying Your Heart Out' and 'Bridge Over Troubled Water', while the Lottery Winners and Tinie Tempah added star power. Comedian Al Foran brought laughs with impressions of Pep, Fergie, and others.
Anecdotes and Finale
Paulie Malignaggi, once a rival but later a close friend, flew in to share memories: "He was a larger-than-life cult figure but so down to earth. He really loved this city." The night ended with Bugzy Malone performing a new song for Hatton, and a closing rendition of 'Blue Moon'. Bugzy told an emotional Campbell, "Your dad was the original King of the North."
