Our community members are treated to special offers, promotions and adverts from us and our partners. You can check out at any time. More info
Irish sports stars have paid tribute to former world champion Ricky Hatton after the death of the boxing icon was announced yesterday.
The 46-year-old was found dead at his home in Greater Manchester with police saying they are not treating the death as suspicious.
Irish Olympic Gold medallist Michael Carruth said that young boxers looked up to the pugilist affectionately known by his fans as ‘The Hitman’.
He said: “I was just shocked when my brother told me he was dead. I couldn’t believe it. I knew him and was on the same card as him down the years.
“I had to turn on the television to make sure it was true because I just couldn’t believe it.
“He was a role model to a lot of young people in this country and in the UK as well and I’m sure they will be all devastated at his passing.”
Although he retired from the sport in 2012, Hatton had announced in July that he would fight Eisa Aldah in Dubai in December in what would have been his second comeback.
But former Olympic champion Carruth, who won a welterweight gold medal at the 1992 Summer Olympics in Barcelona, said that he would have advised Ricky against going back into the ring professionally.
He added: “I don’t believe in people making comebacks. When you don’t do it the first time, don’t do it a second.
“He’d have been 47 going into a ring when you should be 27 going into a ring. He had done enough in his career to make him a legend and that’s what he is.”
Other Irish sports stars, including Roy Keane were quick to pay tribute to the ever-popular Mancunian.
Speaking on Sky Sports, the former Manchester United captain said: “The guy was a warrior. I think that’s why the fans loved him watching him in the ring.
“We know how tough that sport is. But my God, he gave everything for that sport, and I think that’s why the fans loved following him.
“He’d a number of fights in America when thousands would travel over to see him because they thought so highly of him.
“He’d left everything in that ring. It’s absolutely shocking.”
Former Ireland striker John Aldridge wrote on social media: “Awful news to get up to this morning that Ricky Hatton has passed away. I was lucky to have met him on numerous occasions and he was a top bloke.
“It’s so sad, far too young to be taken away! Our thoughts are with his family and close friends !RIP topman.”
Subscribe to our newsletter for the latest news from the Irish Mirror direct to your inbox: Sign up here.
