Wayne Rooney Pays Tribute to Late Boxer Ricky Hatton

Former world champion boxer Ricky Hatton was found dead at his Manchester home on Sunday at the age of 46.

Wayne Rooney, 39, who carried Hatton's belts into the ring before the boxer's 2007 victory over Jose Luis Castillo in Las Vegas, expressed his grief on the latest episode of The Wayne Rooney Show.

"Ricky was such a good lad and a good person," Rooney said. "He is someone who captured the nation, in terms of the support he got, they followed him all around the world. I want to pay my condolences to his family and everyone who is really close to him. It is way too soon."

Hatton, a lifelong Manchester City supporter, was honored with a minute's applause before the Manchester derby at the Etihad Stadium. Both Manchester City and Manchester United players wore black armbands during the match.

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola commented on the loss, stating, "We are thinking of Hatton's family, friends, and the Man City family."

Hatton's death has prompted an outpouring of tributes from the sports community, reflecting his significant impact on boxing and his deep connection to Manchester.