Paul Gascoigne expressed deep sadness upon learning about the passing of his close friend Ricky Hatton. Hatton, a prominent figure in the boxing world, was discovered deceased at his residence in Manchester, sparking sorrow throughout the sports community.
The late Hatton, who was laid to rest at Manchester Cathedral with a massive turnout of mourners, had been found hanged according to an official inquiry. Known for his fervent support of Manchester City and his ties to football beyond the Etihad Stadium, the 46-year-old shared a special bond with Gascoigne during a speaking tour where their camaraderie flourished.
Gascoigne, reminiscing about their time together, described Hatton as a generous and vibrant personality, much like himself. The former England star recounted humorous incidents from their shared experiences, highlighting Hatton’s jovial nature and their memorable interactions during a joint appearance in Bristol.
Despite Hatton’s impressive boxing record of 45 wins and three losses, it was his approachable demeanor that endeared him to countless fans and well-wishers. Following his tragic demise, his family paid tribute to him as more than just a world champion, emphasizing his roles as a beloved family member and friend cherished for his kindness and humor.
While Hatton had previously opened up about struggles with mental health and addiction, his loved ones attested to his positive state of mind before his untimely passing. His manager, Paul Speak, who made the heart-wrenching discovery, expressed belief that Hatton did not intend to end his life and was optimistic about his future.
In unrelated news, Sky has introduced a discounted Essential TV and Sky Sports bundle for the upcoming 2025/26 season, offering substantial savings and a wide array of live sports broadcasts, including over 1,400 matches across various leagues. Additionally, Sky has increased its coverage to showcase a minimum of 215 live Premier League games annually, along with Formula 1, golf, and other sporting events.