Conor McGregor dedicated Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship’s latest event to one of his heroes.
The former dual-weight champion sat ringside to watch a wild night of fights at the AO Arena in Manchester, England, on Saturday night.
BKFC 81 was headlined by James DeGale’s debut in the sport, which saw him win a wild fight after four points were deducted during his five-round clash with Matty Floyd.
Before the former boxing world champion and Olympic gold medalist entered the ring, Conor McGregor interrupted the broadcast to pay a touching tribute to Ricky Hatton.
Photo by Matthew Lewis/Getty ImagesConor McGregor pays tribute to Ricky Hatton
Ricky Hatton established himself as one of Britain’s greatest ever fighters before recently passing away at the age of 46.
The former two-weight world champion had a profound impact on Conor McGregor’s career, and the Irishman wanted everyone who watched BKFC 81 to know about it.
“Manchester, England, it’s great to be here,” McGregor began.
“Ricky Hatton forever. Ricky Hatton is forever.
“This is a message to the Hatton family. We are with you here on your loss.
“Your father was a special, special man. Truly, the greatest fighter of the United Kingdom.
“A man who paved the way for many of the lighter weights, including myself. A hero of mine.
“This event here is in honor of the legend that is Manchester’s own, Ricky ‘The Hitman’ Hatton!”
Fighters react to Ricky Hatton’s sad passing
Conor McGregor is the latest in a long line of fighters who have paid tribute to Ricky Hatton.
“Such a sad day for combat sports. Sad day for Great Britain. Sad day for Manchester,” UFC heavyweight champion Tom Aspinall wrote on Instagram. “I remember as a young boy staying up late to watch his legendary career. The original people’s champion, one of us. Rest in peace.”
“RIP to the legend @rickyhatton may he RIP 🙏 There will only ever be 1 Ricky Hatton 🎶. can’t believe this so young,” Tyson Fury captioned two pictures of him and the man who helped him on his incredible comeback journey.
“RIP legend,” Joseph Parker posted.
“What can I say I’m absolutely devastated. RIP My friend,” Frank Bruno said.
“Very sad to hear the news of Ricky Hatton not being with us anymore. One of the best to do it. Inspired a generation. Thoughts are with his family,” Darren Till said.
“Rest in peace to Ricky ‘The Hitman’ Hatton. Boxing lost a great one way too young, one of the greatest British fighters of all time,” Jake Paul tweeted.