'We will never forget him': Pacquiao stunned, bewildered over Ricky Hatton’s death
MANILA, Philippines — News of Ricky Hatton’s death shook the world of sports Sunday night, and among those who expressed shock was fellow Hall of Famer Manny Pacquiao, whom the British legend fought in 2009.
“Ano kayang kinamatay niya?” was the initial reaction of Pacquiao during a video call with The STAR while the Filipino icon was vacationing with his wife, Jinkee Pacquiao, in Istanbul, Turkey.
Hatton died aged 46, Britain's Press Association news agency reported. He was found dead at his home in Hyde, northwest England. Greater Manchester Police said they were not treating the death as suspicious.
A police spokesperson said: "Officers were called by a member of the public to attend Bowlacre Road, Hyde, Tameside, at 6:45 a.m. (0545 GMT) today (Sunday) where they found the body of a 46-year-old man. There are not currently believed to be any suspicious circumstances.”
Pacquiao said Hatton will forever be remembered particularly in boxing.
“His contributions to the sport will always be remembered. Lahat tayo, hindi natin makakalimutan si Ricky Hatton,” said Pacquiao.
Pacquiao said his fight against Hatton in 2009, which ended in a spectacular knockout for the Filipino icon, ranks among his most memorable fights, adding that it’s an honor to share the ring with the British pride.
“May he rest in peace,” said Pacquiao.
Hatton won world titles at light-welterweight and welterweight, and his aggressive style made him one of the most popular British boxers of his generation.
He rose through amateur and domestic ranks before taking on world-class boxers in Kostya Tszyu, Floyd Mayweather and Pacquiao. – With AFP
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