The city of Manchester is in mourning following the passing of Ricky Hatton at the age of 46. Hatton, a British boxing icon and lifelong Manchester City fan, was found dead at his home on Sunday, September 14, 2025.

Manchester City has released a statement expressing their devastation at the news, calling Hatton "one of City's most loved and revered supporters". The club has confirmed that there will be a minute's appreciation held before the Manchester derby against Manchester United on Sunday afternoon as a tribute to the late boxer. Both sets of players will also wear black armbands.

Hatton was a devoted Manchester City fan throughout his life, often attending matches and displaying his support for the club. He famously wore sky blue shorts in the ring and used the City anthem "Blue Moon" as his walkout song. In 2008, he fulfilled a dream by fighting Juan Lazcano at the Etihad Stadium, home of Manchester City.

During his impressive 15-year boxing career, Hatton won world titles at light-welterweight and welterweight. He secured famous victories over fighters like Kostya Tszyu and Jose Luis Castillo. Known as "The Hitman," Hatton was celebrated for his relentless fighting style and his connection with fans. His fights in Las Vegas, particularly the one against Floyd Mayweather Jr. in 2007, drew massive crowds of supporters from the UK.

News of Hatton's death has prompted an outpouring of tributes from the sporting world and beyond. Sky Sports pundits Micah Richards and Roy Keane paid tribute to Hatton prior to the Manchester derby. Richards, a former Manchester City player, described Hatton as "a man of the people" and "the nicest guy ever". Manchester United also sent their condolences to Hatton's family, calling him "a legend of our city". Phil Foden said that Manchester City would use Hatton's death as motivation for the Manchester derby.

Ricky Hatton had been open about his struggles with mental health and addiction. His death is not being treated as suspicious.