Liam Gallagher breaks silence with emotional tribute to Ricky Hatton

Liam Gallagher has paid tribute to Ricky Hatton following his death, aged 46, with the Oasis frontman saying knowing the champion boxer was an 'absolute honour'. News broke on Sunday that the boxing icon had died, sparking an outpouring of messages from sporting figures and celebrities.

Prior to Sunday's Manchester derby between Manchester City and Manchester United both sides wore black armbands following the passing of Hatton, a passionate City supporter, with a moment's appreciation observed pre-match. Manager Pep Guardiola looked visibly emotional and offered his condolences during his pre-match interview with Sky Sports.

Liam and his brother Noel carried Hatton's world title belts into the ring ahead of his 2008 Las Vegas fight with Paulie Malignaggi in Las Vegas.

The 52-year-old made reference to that in his emotional post on X, the first time he has taken to the social media platform since July.

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He said: "Absolutely devastated to hear the news about RICKY HATTON it was an absolute honour to know him and carry his belts RIP CHAMP LIVE FOREVER LG x"

Hatton, affectionately known as 'The Hitman' during his fighting career, described the Gallagher brothers carrying out his two belts as one of the highlights of his career.

"Ever since I was a kid, I wanted to be a boxing world champion, support Man City and listen to Oasis," he said.

"But I became a four-time world champion in two weight classes, ended up boxing at the Etihad Stadium in front of 55,000 people, and became mates with Noel and Liam Gallagher over the years."

Phil Foden, the opening goalscorer in City's comfortable 3-0 win over their rivals, also dedicated his goal and their triumph to the lifelong fan.

He said: "100% I had extra motivation going into the game, it was for him and his family and for the people suffering right now.

"The lads gave everything. It wasn't a pretty match but it was all for him."

City earlier released a statement which read: "Hatton wore sky blue shorts and used Blue Moon as his walkout song throughout his career.

"Ricky was one of City's most loved and revered supporters, who will always be remembered for a glittering boxing career that saw him win world titles at welterweight and light-welterweight.

"Everyone at the club would like to send our heartfelt condolences to his family and friends at this difficult time."

The Hitman last fought professionally in 2012 but had been training ahead of his return to the ring, where he was due to fight Eisa Al Dah.