Wayne Rooney ‘heartbroken’ after passing of boxing icon Ricky Hatton
Wayne Rooney has posted a heartfelt tribute to his friend and boxing icon Ricky Hatton after the heartbreaking news of his passing at the young age of 46. Hatton, who was a former world champion boxer, was discovered deceased at his home in Manchester on September 14. Although the reason for his death has not been disclosed, authorities have stated that it is not considered suspicious. Rooney, 39, shared a close bond with Hatton, famously escorting his belts into the ring prior to Hatton’s win against Jose Luis Castillo in Las Vegas in 2007. On The Wayne Rooney Show, he reminisced about the profound loss. Ricky Hatton died at the age of 46. / Alex Livesey/GettyImages”Ricky was such a fantastic guy and a wonderful individual,” Rooney remarked. “He captured the hearts of the nation. The support he garnered was astounding, and people followed him wherever he went.” Rooney also extended his sympathies to Hatton’s family and friends, stating: “I want to express my condolences to his family and all those who were truly close to him. It’s way too early.” The former Manchester United and England forward revealed that he learned of Hatton’s passing shortly after participating in a legends exhibition match for Manchester United in South Korea. “It hasn’t completely sunk in yet,” Rooney continued. “It’s devastating. Heartbreaking.” “Just devastating.” Wayne Rooney honors his friend Ricky Hatton. pic.twitter.com/BzrKHDF7Bj— BBC Sport (@BBCSport) September 14, 2025 Rooney wasn’t the only footballer to honor Hatton, who held world titles in two weight classes—light-welterweight and welterweight—throughout his illustrious career. Jack Grealish, offering his condolences on Instagram, referred to the boxing star as a “true legend” and “absolute diamond” each time they met. “Such sad news man,” Grealish shared. “My thoughts are with his family and friends. RIP Hitman.” Roy Keane, Micah Richards, and numerous others within the football community also conveyed their grief, along with Tyson Fury from the boxing world. The heavyweight champion expressed his sorrow on Instagram, stating, “Rip to the legend @rickyhatton may he rip. There will only ever be 1 Ricky Hatton. Can’t believe this, so young.” READ THE LATEST FASHION, CULTURE AND LIFESTYLE CONTENT FROM 90MIN
Published: 2025-09-16 15:10:00
source: www.90min.com
