Former heavyweight world champion Tyson Fury wrote on Instagram: “RIP to the legend Ricky Hatton.
“There will only ever be one Ricky Hatton. Can’t believe this – so young.”
Former light-welterweight world champion Amir Khan wrote on X: “Today we lost not only one of Britain’s greatest boxers, but a friend, a mentor, a warrior.
“Rest well, Ricky. You’ll always have your place in the ring of our memories.”
IBO world middleweight champion Chris Eubank Jr said: “Rest in Peace Mr Ricky Hatton. We salute you”.
Former Olympic champion Luke Campbell said Hatton was an “inspiration to him” and a “legend in the world of boxing”.
The World Boxing Association said Hatton’s legacy would “live on in every fight and in the hearts of boxing fans around the world”, describing him as a “true champion, an indomitable spirit and a legend of the sport”.
Hatton was a well-known Manchester City fan.
“The news is devastating,” former City defender Micah Richards told Sky Sports.
“He’s such a British icon – a true Man City fan – but most importantly he was a man of the people. He was the nicest guy ever.”
