Nicknamed ‘the Hitman’, his all-action style saw Hatton became one of Britain’s most popular fighters, with a loyal following.

Those fans travelled in huge numbers to watch Hatton fight, with more than 30,000 heading to Las Vegas for his title bout with Floyd Mayweather in 2007.

Greater Manchester mayor Andy Burnham praised Hatton, who was a hugely popular figure in his home city.

“Ricky was much loved by so many in Greater Manchester. He was the kind of person who would always turn up for people, supporting so many causes,” Burnham posted on X.

“He made us smile and made us proud. We will find a way of honouring him properly. Rest in peace, Champ.”

Manchester City – the club Hatton proudly supported – paid tribute with a minute’s appreciation before Sunday’s meeting with Manchester United at Etihad Stadium.

A 10-bell salute to Hatton was also made at the World Boxing Championships at the M&S Bank Arena in Liverpool.

Former world champion Barry McGuigan, who became a trainer and promoter after retiring in 1989, told BBC Radio 5 Live that he used to go on training runs with Hatton.

“He [Hatton] had a huge following, he had a magnetic and engaging personality outside the ring too,” McGuigan added.

“He liked to enjoy himself but he would train himself into phenomenal condition.”

Former world heavyweight champion Frank Bruno said his “life was enriched” by his friendship with Hatton.

He added on social media: “There will never be another Ricky or anyone like him and at this time I share the shock and upset of losing what I consider to be a great fighter, a friend and an amazing human being.”

Hatton’s former promoter Frank Warren said the fighter helped turn Manchester into the “capital of British boxing”.

Warren told BBC Radio 5 Live: “It was phenomenal what he did for British boxing. We worked hard to get Manchester on the map – it wasn’t a big fight town, but he was quite instrumental in that happening.

“He crossed over in a big way to the general public – they got behind him. He became a serious man of the people, a really nice guy.”

Former WBA lightweight champion Anthony Crolla told BBC Radio 5 Live: “There will never be another Ricky Hatton – no one will get close to him. Every kid used to try and fight like him. That was the impact he had.”

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