British boxing legend Ricky Hatton has been honoured with the Freedom of the City of London just weeks after announcing he will be making a shock comeback.
Thirteen years on from his last professional bout, Hatton is set to return to the ring to face Eisa Aldah in Dubai on December 2.
But before then he will be recognised for his significant contribution to boxing at the Lord Mayor’s Charity Boxing Match on October 8, which will see firefighters from London and New York face each other at the Guildhall.
The honour awarded to Hatton is slightly surprising given he hails from Manchester and fought for the majority of his career in the North-West. But the 46-year-old is delighted to receive it ahead of his return to the ring.
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“I’m absolutely chuffed to bits to be given the Freedom of the City of London — it’s a real honour and something I never imagined happening to me,” Hatton said.
“London’s always held a special place in my heart and been the location for many of my fights, most memorably when I won the WBU light welterweight world title at Wembley conference centre against Tony Pep, so to be recognised like this means a lot.
“I’m really looking forward to the Lord Mayor’s boxing night at the Guildhall on 8th October — it’ll be a great night for a great cause, and I can’t wait to be part of it.”
Michael Watson and Barry Hearn also honoured
Former British and Commonwealth champion Michael Watson as well as Matchroom founder and promoter Barry Hearn have also been given the same honour as Hatton.
Watson famously beat Nigel Benn in 1989 before having two fights with Chris Eubank.
The rematch almost ended in tragedy, with Watson suffering a near-fatal brain injury. However, Watson was able to pull through after spending 40 days in a coma and having six brain operations.
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Meanwhile, Hearn guided Eubank during his career, and has since handed over the reins to his son, Eddie, who promotes Anthony Joshua and Conor Benn.
Upon receiving the honour, Hearn said: “I’m absolutely thrilled and deeply honoured to receive the Freedom of the City of London — a place that holds so much history, tradition, and personal meaning for me.
“I’m also incredibly excited about the Lord Mayor’s Appeal Fight Night this October 8th — a fantastic evening of sport and fundraising in the heart of London, bringing people together for a great cause. It promises to be a knockout event in every sense!”
The exclusive black-tie event will see donations go directly towards supporting firefighters and members of the UK fire services.
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