Ricky Hatton’s 13-year-old daughter, Millie, delivered the most poignant moment of her father’s funeral when she tearfully asked, “Why didn’t you reach out?” as family, friends and fans gathered in Manchester to say goodbye to one of British boxing’s most beloved figures.
The former world champion’s funeral took place on Friday, beginning with a procession that travelled through Hatton’s hometown of Hyde and the wider Manchester area.
Thousands lined the streets to pay their respects as the cortege passed familiar landmarks from his life, including local pubs and the gym where he trained.
The route ended at Manchester Cathedral, where a private service was attended by some of the biggest names in sport and entertainment.
Among the mourners were Wayne Rooney, Liam Gallagher and Tyson Fury, all of whom joined Hatton’s family to honour the man affectionately known as “The Hitman.”
Inside the cathedral, the mood was heavy with grief but also gratitude for a life that had touched so many.
Hatton’s three children, Campbell, 24, Millie, 13, and Fearne, 12, each gave emotional tributes.
But it was Millie’s words that left the congregation visibly moved.
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Ricky Hatton’s 13-year-old daughter, Millie, delivered the most poignant moment of her father’s funeral when she tearfully asked, “Why didn’t you reach out?” as family, friends and fans gathered in Manchester to say goodbye to one of British boxing’s most beloved figures
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Fighting through tears, per The Telegraph, she said: “Why did you feel that way? Why didn’t you reach out about how you felt?”
Her words struck a deep chord, not only because of their innocence but because Hatton had long been open about his mental health struggles.
The former world champion spoke candidly about depression after his retirement from boxing, later becoming a passionate advocate for mental health awareness.
Though those close to him had believed he was winning that battle, Hatton was found dead at his home last month, aged 46.
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Ricky Hatton's funeral took place at Manchester Cathedral on Friday
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In her heartbreaking tribute, Millie reflected on the future her father will never see.
“I can’t help but think about how you will never walk me down the aisle, how you will never meet my children and your grandchildren, how you won’t be here to see me leave school or even see me grow into an adult,” she said.
“I genuinely hope you don’t ever think you have let me down, because I would never think that.
“I love and miss you unconditionally.”
Her older brother Campbell, himself a professional boxer, also spoke movingly about his father’s influence.
“I looked up to my dad in every aspect of life,” he said.
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Thousands of mourners paid tribute to Ricky Hatton on Friday
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“All of that was fuelled by the love I had and always will have for him.
“I can’t explain how much I’m going to miss you, Dad. I can’t believe we’re not going to make any new memories together, but the ones I have I will treasure forever.”
After the service, the cortege made its way from Manchester Cathedral to the Etihad Stadium, home of Hatton’s beloved Manchester City.
Fans lined the roads once more, applauding as the hearse passed.
A tribute to Hatton was shown on the stadium’s big screen, bringing the city to a silent pause, before he was laid to rest.
Anyone who is in emotional distress, struggling to cope or at risk of suicide can call the Samaritans anonymously for free from a UK phone on 116 123 or go to samaritans.org.