Former Manchester City defender Micah Richards paid an emotional tribute to British boxing legend Ricky Hatton, who today was found dead aged 46.
Speaking on Sky Sports before the Manchester derby, Richards described feeling "taken aback" by the devastating news, remembering Hatton as more than just a sporting legend but as "a man of the people".
Hatton was a well-known Manchester City fan, fighting at the City of Manchester Stadium and the Etihad throughout his 15-year boxing career.
"I was taken aback, to be honest, because he's such an icon," Richards said. "British icon, boxing, sports, true Man City fan, but most importantly, he was a man of the people.
Micah Richards said he was 'taken back' by the news of the death of 'man of the people' Ricky Hatton
|SKY SPORTS
"He was the nicest guy ever. When we were going down to one of his gyms, and I was a bit nervous because I didn't really know about boxing, he said 'just do this' and it took his time. This is before the takeover, [before] Man City were what they are now. And for him to take the time and effort...
"I've been multiple times for beers with him, talking about football and life. He was a deep person, very deep.
"He overthought a lot of things, and the news is just devastating. It's absolutely ruined my mood for the whole day.
"He'd be [at the Etihad Stadium] today. He'd be celebrating. He's had a box here many times. And to get this news now, it just feels surreal. Someone so young, and for this to happen now, it's just... It's devastating."
Ricky Hatton was a well-known Manchester City fan and was expected at the Etihad Stadium today for the Manchester derby
|GETTY
Manchester United legend Roy Keane added: "The guy was a warrior. I think that's why the fans loved watching him in that ring. We know how tough that sport is.
"My God, he gave everything for that sport and I think that's why the fans love him. He had a number of fights in America, and thousands would travel over because they'd thought so highly of him.
"He left everything in that ring, absolutely shocking news."
JUST IN: Ricky Hatton: Tributes pour in for British boxing icon after death aged 46
Roy Keane described Ricky Hatton as a 'warrior'
|SKY SPORTS
The former world champion was discovered at his residence in Hyde, Greater Manchester, early Sunday morning after police responded to a call at 6.45am.
Greater Manchester Police confirmed they found a 46-year-old man's body at an address on Bowlacre Road, stating the circumstances weren't considered suspicious.
The tragic discovery occurred just weeks after the boxing legend had revealed plans for a December return to the ring. Sources indicate concern arose Saturday evening when Hatton didn't attend an event featuring one of his fighters.
Throughout his post-retirement years, Hatton transitioned into coaching while openly discussing his battles with mental health issues and substance abuse.
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The boxing world mourns a fighter who captured 45 victories across 48 professional contests during a remarkable 15-year journey.
Hatton secured multiple world championships at light-welterweight and claimed another at welterweight, establishing himself among Britain's greatest fighters.
His crowning achievement came in 2005 when three prestigious organisations - Ring magazine, the Boxing Writers Association of America, and ESPN - all honoured him as Fighter of the Year.
Among his most celebrated triumphs were victories over Russia's Kostya Tszyu and Jose Luis Castillo, battles that cemented his reputation as a fearless competitor.
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"He was a man of the people"
— Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) September 14, 2025
Micah Richards and Roy Keane pay tribute to Ricky Hatton. pic.twitter.com/s1Xo3rlG8T
Despite suffering defeats to Floyd Mayweather and Manny Pacquiao, Hatton's aggressive style and unwavering bravery made him one of Britain's most beloved sporting figures. He leaves behind a son, Campbell.
Hatton had courageously shared his struggles with mental health and addiction throughout his career, making his loss particularly poignant for the boxing community.
Tyson Fury expressed disbelief at the news, posting: "RIP to the legend Ricky Hatton, may he RIP. There will only ever be one Ricky Hatton. Can't believe this. So young."
Amir Khan delivered a heartfelt message acknowledging both Hatton's greatness and his personal battles. "Today we lost not only one of Britain's greatest boxers, but a friend, a mentor, a warrior," Khan wrote, emphasising that "sometimes the hardest fight happens in silence, in the mind".
Khan's tribute included a powerful plea for mental health awareness: "If you're hurting or struggling, you are not alone. Talk. Reach out."