Boxing Corridor of Famer Manny Pacquiao expressed unhappiness over the passing of former opponent and fellow boxing nice Ricky Hatton, who died on Sunday at the age of 46.
“I’m deeply saddened to listen to concerning the passing of Ricky Hatton. He was not solely an excellent fighter contained in the ring but in addition a courageous and type man in life,” Pacquiao mentioned in a press release.
“We shared unforgettable moments in boxing historical past, and I’ll all the time honor the respect and sportsmanship he confirmed.”
Pacquiao added that Hatton’s braveness prolonged past boxing.
“Ricky fought bravely, not simply within the ring, however in his journey via life. He really had a great combat, and we’re all blessed to have been a part of his great journey,” the eight-division world champion mentioned.
“My heartfelt prayers and condolences to the Hatton household and family members. Could he relaxation in peace.”
Pacquiao and Hatton famously confronted off in 2009 within the bout dubbed “The Battle of East and West,” the place the previous had a second-round knockout to win the sunshine welterweight title.
The victory made Pacquiao a six-division world champion on the time, earlier than he ultimately grew to become boxing’s solely eight-division champion.
Earlier than retiring in 2012, Hatton compiled a formidable report of 45 wins (32 by knockout) in 48 fights.
—JKC, GMA Built-in Information
