CLAIRE Sweeney, Ricky Hatton’s former girlfriend, struggled to hold back tears as she bid her final farewell to the boxing icon.
Today, thousands of mourners assembled in Manchester to honor the beloved legend, Ricky.
Claire Sweeney attended the funeral in Manchester
The actress appeared visibly emotional
, who had an eight-month relationship with Ricky last year, looked heartfelt as she attended the ceremony today.
In the wake of the icon's passing, Claire penned a poignant tribute that read: “I needed a few days to process the heartbreaking news about my dear friend Ricky.
“My thoughts are with his family, especially his children Campbell, Millie Fearne, and Lyla, his granddaughter.
“To them, Speaky, and to all his friends who cherished him deeply and for so many years, I extend my deepest condolences.
“Ricky, you were the people's champion. We loved and treasured you. Forever in our hearts.”
Hatton and the star appeared together in 2024 and began dating in secret after the show.
The two had been friends for 25 years before their relationship turned romantic.
The couple initially kept their romance private and enjoyed a vacation in Tenerife before going public.
However, their relationship did not last, and in December 2024, it was reported that their romance had ended after eight months together.
Following their breakup, Claire stated: “We’re still friends; we were friends.
“We dated, and now we’re friends again. Everything is fine.”
Before Ricky’s untimely death, Claire supported his boxing comeback with a heartfelt message.
The actress shared a video announcing the 46-year-old's return to the sport.
“This is fantastic,” she captioned the post.
Ricky was sadly discovered deceased at his residence on Sunday, September 14.
Tyson Fury, Liam Gallagher, and the Rooneys are among the mourners at Ricky Hatton’s funeral as the procession completes its route through Manchester today.
Thousands of fans lined the streets as the boxing legend embarked on his final journey through his hometown.
The 37-year-old was accompanied by boxing royalty, including Tony Bellew and Frazer Clarke, as they entered the venue.
The star-studded lineup also featured former cricketer Freddie Flintoff, soap actor Bruce Jones, and TV personality Calum Best.
The procession began at 9:45 am outside his local pub, the Cheshire Cheese, near his home in Hyde.
A Reliant Regal, reminiscent of the one seen in Only Fools and Horses, led the procession in tribute to Ricky’s extensive memorabilia collection.
The former world champion was a massive fan of the popular sitcom and once purchased one of the original three-wheelers for £4,000.
Ricky’s brother, Matthew, was seen traveling with the cortege, which was followed by floral tributes reading ‘Hitman’.
Ricky then passed by his gym and the AO Arena on his final route, arriving at Manchester Cathedral by midday.
A memorial service will now be held at the cathedral, with supporters gathered outside to show their respect.
The service will conclude at the Etihad Stadium, home of Ricky’s cherished football team, Manchester City.
The 46-year-old British boxing legend was tragically found deceased on September 14.
Paul Speak, his manager and close friend, discovered him after checking in when Ricky failed to attend a boxing event.
On Wednesday, Ricky’s son Campbell reflected on what would have been his father’s 47th birthday.
Campbell, who followed in his father’s footsteps by becoming a professional boxer, shared how his father’s passing has affected him.
Ricky was honored with an MBE in 2007 and had been active as a boxing promoter and trainer since retiring from the ring.
Throughout his illustrious 15-year career, Ricky claimed four world titles in both light-welterweight and welterweight divisions.
