Tributes continue to pour in following the tragic loss of British boxing legend Ricky Hatton.
It was announced on Sunday that Hatton had sadly passed away at the age of just 46 after he was found dead at his home in Greater Manchester.
‘The Hitman’ was one of the most beloved boxers of all time, competing professionally between 1997 and 2012 and becoming a two-weight world champion at super-lightweight and welterweight.
The pinnacle of his career came in 2005 when he defeated Kostya Tszyu in front of his loyal and passionate fans at the Manchester Arena, and Hatton was also involved in mammoth fights against modern greats such as Floyd Mayweather and Manny Pacquiao.
The likes of Tyson Fury, Anthony Joshua and Frank Bruno have all paid their respects so far, and now Panamanian boxing icon Roberto Duran has shared his own memories of Hatton on social media.
“My dear Ricky Hatton, it pains me deeply to learn of your passing. You were always a gentleman and a great person. I enjoyed all your fights and I remember as if it were yesterday the day I welcomed you at the Panama airport and took you everywhere.
“I will remember those moments, your friendship, and the honour of having called you a friend. To your beloved family, I send my deepest condolences.
“I share their grief because Ricky was more than a great champion; he was a true brother. May God have you in his glory. Forever my champion. Hands of Stone.”
More tributes and messages of condolence are expected over the coming days as the boxing world remembers a true legend of the sport, though this one in particular would have meant a lot – Hatton had made no secret of naming Duran his hero and idol.
