Ricky Hatton, the former boxing world champion who was found dead at his home aged 46 earlier this month, said in his final interview that he valued being a 'man of the people' over being considered the greatest fighter. The interview, filmed days before his death, was released by First Round TV.
Hatton, who grew up on a council estate and took up boxing to deal with bullies, became a world champion in two weight divisions. He insisted he never wanted to be number one, but rather to be mentioned alongside his heroes. 'I didn't want to be the best we've ever had but I always dreamt of being up there in the same bracket,' he said.
The boxer, who defeated Kostya Tszyu in 2005 and later fought Floyd Mayweather, said he would not swap places with the American great. He highlighted his connection to his roots, noting he still lived near his childhood estate, frequented the same local pub, and kept the same friends from school.
Hatton's funeral will take place in Manchester next Friday after a memorial procession through the city. He was due to make a boxing comeback in Dubai on December 2.
