Derry Mathews: Ricky Hatton 'a legend'
The Hitman's funeral is being held in Manchester today
A former Liverpool boxer, who was trained and promoted by Ricky Hatton, has paid tribute to 'The Hitman' ahead of his funeral today.
The Mancunian boxing icon died last month at the age of 46.
Thousands of people are set to line Manchester's streets to pay their respects, ahead of a service at Manchester Cathedral at midday.
Derry Mathews, who held the WBA interim lightweight title in 2015, said:
"He was a great man and is a massive loss, not just to the boxing world, but to the whole world.
"He got nans and grandads, mums and dads, getting their kids engaged in the sport of boxing and it's a huge loss to the country.
"He was one of the lads. He used to come down to our gym and meet with a couple of lads sparring, but he was always one of the lads.
"Always a character, (he'd) always give Scousers stick because Man City at the time were winning everything!
"He was no different from anyone else. Although he was most probably worth millions and millions of pounds and had been in the biggest fights in the world, that never changed him.
"He was a peoples person and I think that's rubbed off on his son as well. I think Campbell is the same. Campbell is a cracking kid and hopefully he can carry on flying the flag for Rick.
"I've just seen they've set up a foundation for him, which is great, but it's a huge loss for the world, not just the boxing community."
Ahead of the service at Manchester Cathedral, the cortege is passing certain spots that meant a lot to Ricky - including The Cheshire Cheese in the village of Gee Cross and Energie Fitness Hyde Ricky Hatton, which is the gym Ricky founded.
After the service, the cortege will make a final trip to the Etihad Stadium before the procession makes its way to a private committal.
Derry added:
"Always one of the lads, always up for a laugh and a joke, but at the same time, one of the best fighters ever from this country, one of the best fighters in the world, and just a great guy.
"A gentleman, would do anything for anyone, and a legend. In my eyes, he's a legend."