Ricky Hatton dead: Boxing legend, 46, found dead at home as tributes paid – latest updates | Boxing | Sport

Micah Richards, the former Manchester City defender, had some kind words for the legendary boxer on Sky Sports.

Speaking before today’s Manchester derby at the Etihad Stadium, he said: “Obviously the news is devastating.

“We got it what, half an hour ago? I was taken aback, to be honest, because he was such an icon. British icon, boxing, sports, a true Man City fan.

“Most importantly, he was a man of the people. The nicest guy ever. I remember going down to one of his gyms, I was a bit nervous because I didn’t really know about boxing, he said just do this, he took his time.

“For him to take the time and effort, multiple times with beers with him just talking about football and life, he was a deep person. Very deep. He overthought a lot of things and the news is just devastating.

“It’s ruined my mood for the whole day. He’d be here today celebrating. He’s had a box here many times.

“To get this news now feels surreal. For someone so young for it to happen now, it’s devastating.”