The IBO pay tribute to Ricky Hatton

"There's only one Ricky Hatton!"

Earlier this month the Boxing world lost one of its ambassadors, a legend in the sport, IBO World Super Lightweight champion Ricky Hatton.

The IBO would like to send its condolences and love to Matthew, Campbell, Millie, Fearne, Carol and Ray Hatton during this time.

"My respect and friendship with Ricky were immeasurable. He brought joy to all inside and outside the ring. He was talented, fearless, and entertaining as a boxer and never had a fight in which he didn't provide 100% of his best effort. His support, smiles and warmth were always there for me. He will be lovingly remembered by everyone who knew him."

- Ed Levine, IBO President

"A superbly talented fighter who inspired a generation of young boxers and fans in a way very few had done before due to both his personality and the entertainment he provided in the ring. Making his debut in Widnes in 1997 to then go on to win one of the most historic fights against Kostya Tszyu in Manchester, Ricky will rightly go down as one of the modern greats of this sport."

- Frank Warren

"When he fought at Man City, there were 54-55,000 people there and I remember when I announced him as the winner, it was against Juan Lazcano in May of 2008, When I announced his name, he put his arm around me and I said his name right to his face. He was special."

- Michael Buffer

"Still can't believe Ricky's gone. We went from foes and bitter rivals at the elite level of this sport to 2 men who's image though shaped in large part by our life as boxers rarely actually discussed boxing when we'd see one another in person. He will be missed and hope to one day see you again champ."

- Paulie Malinaggi

"Rick lived life at a pace I've never seen. He would cram more into a month than some lifetimes, I take comfort and hope he's found the peace that eluded him in life."

- Matthew Hatton

"Everybody always said I was your double and never a truer word said. Looked up to you in every aspect of life. Can't explain how much I'm going to miss the laughs we had and all the good times which I will remember forever. Just can't believe we won't have any more. Love you Dad."

- Campbell Hatton

"He was not only a great fighter inside the ring but also a brave and kind man in life. We shared unforgettable moments in boxing history and I will always honor the respect and sportsmanship he showed. Ricky fought bravely, not just in the ring, but his journey through life. He truly had a good fight, and we are all blessed to have been part of his wonderful journey."

- Manny Pacquiao

"Ricky was a once in a lifetime man. I am eternally grateful I got to share the ring with him. May he rest in peace, he will be missed deeply. Ricky was my closest friend in boxing. I'll miss you, my friend. There will only be one Ricky Hatton."

- Marco Antonio Barrera

"He was a lovely lovely lad. We had a funny night out with him in Vegas. The image of him as the wise cracking lad, always with a one liner, that was him. He'll be sorely missed because he touched everybody. He was such a lovely humble guy. It was an absolute honour to know him."

- Liam and Noel Gallagher