The music and sporting worlds collided in grief today as rock icon Liam Gallagher led an outpouring of tributes for British boxing legend Ricky Hatton, who has tragically passed away at the age of 46.
Gallagher, the iconic former Oasis frontman, took to social media to express his profound sorrow, sharing a poignant black-and-white photograph of the former two-weight world champion in his fighting prime.
'Absolutely devastated,' Gallagher wrote, capturing the shock reverberating through fans and colleagues alike. 'What a man. Was an absolute honour to know you. RIP Ricky Hatton.'
The heartfelt message underscores the deep bond between the Manchester music hero and the city's beloved sporting son, both icons who rose from humble beginnings to achieve global fame.
A Legacy Forged in the Ring
Ricky 'The Hitman' Hatton's career was nothing short of spectacular. Capturing world titles at both light-welterweight and welterweight, he became one of Britain's most celebrated and adored fighters.
His epic battles against the sport's biggest names, including Floyd Mayweather Jr. and Manny Pacquiao, filled arenas and captivated millions on television, cementing his status as a national treasure.
A City in Mourning
News of his passing has sent waves of sadness through his hometown of Manchester and beyond. Hatton was renowned not just for his ferocious fighting style but for his everyman charm, infectious personality, and unwavering connection to his roots.
Tributes have flooded in from across the boxing community and public figures, all echoing Gallagher's sentiment of honour and respect for the man behind the gloves.
While the cause of death has not been officially disclosed, the focus remains on celebrating the immense life and career of a true British sporting great, gone far too soon.
