Ricky Hatton's 'heartbroken' son Campbell speaks for first time: 'It knocked us for six'

A public farewell for the boxing icon has been arranged for 10 October, with a procession beginning in Gee Cross, where the 46-year-old resided, before travelling through Hyde and continuing to Manchester Cathedral.

The cortege will conclude at the Etihad Stadium, home of Hatton's beloved Manchester City.

While the cathedral memorial service requires tickets, the family has encouraged supporters to gather along the procession route.

Hatton's son, Campbell, who was also a professional boxer, revealed in an emotional interview with ITV News: "We are absolutely heartbroken it was so unexpected.

"We had so many plans coming up, so it has knocked us for six, but obviously we are trying to be there for each other."

Campbell expressed that his father would have desired maximum public participation: "That's exactly what he would have wanted.

"He sees his biggest achievement as his fanbase, and that's what he was most proud of. So what he'd want would be the streets to be full of people...because everything he did, he did for his fans."

Campbell shared intimate details about the special connection he shared with his father, revealing that Ricky affectionately referred to him as his "little Mini-Me" due to their remarkable similarities.

"We were identical in so many ways, and I think it's shown through how close we were and the banter we had with each other," Campbell explained during the interview.

"To so many, he was Ricky Hatton the boxer, but to me, he was just my dad, and to the family, it was Richard. We just can't get our heads round it at the minute."

Their physical resemblance was frequently noted by others, with Campbell acknowledging that people had always commented on how he was his father's double.

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The overwhelming response from the public has provided some solace to the grieving family during this difficult period.

Campbell acknowledged that the tributes and messages of support have been helping them cope with their profound loss.

"The outpouring of support from absolutely everyone has been amazing, so that's helping us through a lot," he explained.

The family has found comfort in viewing social media clips celebrating Hatton's boxing career and his renowned sense of humour.

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Manchester City paid tribute with a special tifo display at their match against Burnley, where family members, including Campbell, were present at the Etihad.

Flowers were placed on Hatton's regular seat, creating a poignant moment that visibly affected Campbell during the Saturday afternoon fixture.

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Campbell is among three children Hatton had with former partner Jennifer Dooley, including daughters Millie and Fearne.

Like his father, Campbell pursued professional boxing but retired two months ago following personal tragedy.

Hatton's illustrious career saw him capture world titles at light-welterweight and welterweight divisions, defeating renowned fighters including Kostya Tszyu and Jose Luis Castillo.

His losses to Floyd Mayweather Jr in 2007 and Manny Pacquiao in 2009 came against two of boxing's greatest champions.

The Manchester fighter earned an MBE in 2007 and later worked as a promoter and trainer.

His working-class roots and connection with ordinary fans distinguished him throughout his career, with supporters ensuring he never paid for a pint in any local establishment.