Noel Gallagher pays heartwarming tribute to Ricky Hatton after death at 46

Oasis frontman Noel Gallagher has paid a heartwarming tribute to Ricky Hatton after the former boxing champion's death at age 46. Hatton was found dead at his home in Hyde, Greater Manchester, on Sunday. Police said the death is not being treated as suspicious.

Tributes poured in from across sport and beyond as Hatton's family prepared to mourn. Boxing pundit Steve Bunce said Hatton's long-serving manager found the body at Hatton's Hyde home on Sunday morning, a detail that has underscored the private nature of the tragedy for many fans and colleagues. The news arrived as supporters reflected on Hatton's impact in and out of the ring, and as the boxing community processed the loss of a combatant who was as much a Manchester figure as a world champion.

"We were texting each other last week," Gallagher said on TalkSport, recounting a recent exchange with his longtime friend. He recalled seeing Hatton at Heaton Park, noting that Hatton was "on standard Ricky form" during the reunion live period. Gallagher added that Hatton faced personal struggles that underline a wider reality about mental health, saying, "We don't know what has happened, but he did struggle with mental health, and it just shows you that you never really know." The singer, who has been on tour with his brother Liam during the Oasis reunion, described Hatton as a great Mancunian and a lovely, lovely lad who would be sorely missed.

The pair also shared memories from Hatton's boxing journey. Gallagher recalled a week in Las Vegas when he and Liam helped carry Hatton's belts to the ring before his 2008 fight with Paulie Malignaggi — a moment that he described as one of the funniest nights ever and an honor to be part of. "We did a tour of South America, and he came along with all his mates for the week, and it was like he was part of the band for a week," Gallagher said. The anecdote highlighted Hatton's ability to blend a fierce competitive spirit with a keen sense of humor that endeared him to friends and fans alike.

Hatton's affection for Manchester extended to his football club allegiance. A known Manchester City supporter, he was a familiar presence at the Etihad, where City were in action on the day of his death as they defeated rivals Manchester United 3-0. The City family, including standout players and coaching staff, offered their own tributes, reflecting Hatton's status as a beloved local figure who transcended sport.

The lifetime close to Hatton's world extended beyond his matches. In addition to Gallagher's remarks, City figures such as Phil Foden and Pep Guardiola joined others in expressing condolences, underscoring the wide reach of Hatton's influence and the respect he earned from peers across the sport and the region. Hatton's belts, which were iconic in his ring introductions and celebrated in later years, remain a symbol of his achievements and the camaraderie that defined his career.

Hatton's passing has prompted a wider reflection on mental health within professional sport. Gallagher's comments about Hatton's struggles, combined with the outpouring of tributes from fellow athletes, managers, fans, and family, emphasize the need for ongoing support and openness around mental health issues. Hatton's family, including his parents, siblings, and son Campbell, have received condolences from the boxing community and beyond as they navigate this loss.

The details surrounding Hatton's death remained as investigators and officials reviewed the case, but the initial statement from authorities indicated no signs of foul play. In the wake of his passing,Hatton's career is being remembered not only for his achievements inside the ring but also for his warmth, humor, and the way he connected with people from all walks of life. His belt-bearing moments in Las Vegas, his laughter-filled nights with friends, and his enduring Manchester ties form a closing image of a sportsman who left a lasting impression on fans and peers alike.

As tributes continue to accumulate, those who knew Hatton describe him as someone who could light up a room with his wit and loyalty. The shock and sadness surrounding his death have touched families, fans, and the wider sporting world, reflecting Hatton's reach beyond boxing and into the heart of Manchester and its cultural landscape. His legacy rests not only on a storied competitive career but also on the friendships and memories he shared with teammates, rivals, and fans across the globe.