The streets of Manchester fell silent today as boxing legend Ricky Hatton made his final journey through the city he called home. Thousands of mourners lined the routes to pay their respects to the beloved fighter whose career captured the hearts of the nation.
A City in Mourning
Emotional scenes unfolded across Manchester as the funeral procession made its way through key locations significant to Hatton's life and career. From his childhood neighbourhoods to the training grounds where he honed his craft, each stop represented a chapter in the fighter's remarkable story.
Final Journey Through Boxing Heartland
The carefully planned route took the procession past landmarks that defined Hatton's career, including the boxing gyms where he trained and the venues where he celebrated his greatest victories. Supporters gathered hours early to secure their spots, many wearing boxing memorabilia and sharing stories of the champion's most memorable fights.
A Community United in Grief
Local businesses along the procession route showed their respect with temporary closures and tributes in their windows. Pub landlords who had hosted fight nights during Hatton's career set up screens showing highlights of his greatest bouts, creating impromptu memorial gatherings.
Legacy of a Local Hero
Beyond his achievements in the ring, mourners remembered Hatton as a pillar of the Manchester community. His work with local charities and his unwavering connection to his roots made him more than just a sports star - he was a genuine local hero whose impact extended far beyond boxing.
The overwhelming turnout demonstrated how deeply Hatton had embedded himself in the fabric of Manchester life, with generations of fans coming together to celebrate a man who never forgot where he came from.
