City honour lifelong fan and world champion Hatton with minute’s applause at Derby

Manchester City and Manchester United united in grief on Sunday as both clubs honoured Ricky Hatton following confirmation of the former boxing world champion’s death at the age of 46.

Hatton, a lifelong City supporter and one of British boxing’s most charismatic figures, was found dead at his Manchester home on Sunday morning. Police said the death was not being treated as suspicious. The news stunned fans across sport, with City moving quickly to pay tribute to “one of our most loved supporters”.

Before kick-off at the Etihad, players and supporters marked Hatton’s passing with a poignant minute’s applause. Both teams stood in a circle at the centre of the pitch, black armbands on their sleeves, while images of Hatton were displayed on the stadium’s giant screens. The tribute was met with cheers, clapping and chants of “Ricky, Ricky, Ricky” from fans who had celebrated his triumphs for decades.

City manager Pep Guardiola admitted the news had shaken him. “It was tough news to wake up to,” he said. “Of course he had success and was world champion, but it’s the loss for his family, his kids – he was a grandad. It’s so tough for everyone.”

Hatton, born in Stockport in 1978, became one of Britain’s best-loved fighters, winning world titles at light-welterweight and welterweight. Known as much for his humour and humility as his explosive fighting style, Hatton drew vast followings to arenas in both the UK and the United States.

City’s official statement captured the depth of feeling within the club. “Hatton, an icon of British boxing, won world titles at welterweight and light-welterweight, and was viewed by many as one of the most compelling personalities the sport has ever produced,” it said. “Ricky was one of City’s most loved and revered supporters. He will always be remembered. Everyone at the club would like to send our heartfelt condolences to his family and friends at this difficult time.”

Phil Foden, who scored in City’s derby win, spoke emotionally ahead of the game. “My heart obviously goes out to his family, at this hard time. Obviously to hear the news just before a big game is devastating. I’m sure he would have been here today as well, supporting us. Today is for him.”

Hatton’s connection to City ran deep. He famously fought wearing sky blue shorts and always walked out to the club’s anthem, Blue Moon. In 2008, he realised a lifelong dream when he fought Juan Lazcano at the Etihad Stadium in front of 56,000 fans. Hatton emerged victorious that night, entering the ring in a comic fat suit to the sound of Hi Ho Silver Lining, a self-deprecating nod to his love of food, and producing the humour and heart that cemented his place in the affections of fans.

The 2008 fight was a symbol of the way Hatton blurred the line between sport and spectacle. His raw, aggressive style inside the ring won respect, but his humility, warmth and wit ensured enduring popularity long after his retirement.

On Sunday afternoon, as thousands inside the Etihad applauded and remembered him, it was clear Hatton’s legacy extended far beyond boxing. To City fans, he was more than a supporter; he was family