Noel Gallagher's Heartfelt Tribute to Ricky Hatton: Texts, Memories & Manchester Pride

Noel Gallagher fondly remembers the "great Mancunian" Ricky Hatton, sharing their last exchanges and reflecting on a remarkable friendship.

Remembering Ricky Hatton: A Manchester Legend

When news broke of boxing hero Ricky Hatton’s sudden passing last week, the shock rippled through the music and sports worlds alike. Found at his home in Greater Manchester at just 46 years old, the cause remains unconfirmed but is not being treated as suspicious. For fans who’ve followed both his boxing career and his friendship with the Gallagher brothers, the loss is deeply personal.

Noel Gallagher recently opened up about the bond they shared, revealing that they had been texting mere days before Hatton’s death. It’s a reminder of how even the brightest stars can quietly wrestle with challenges unseen from the outside.

A Friendship Forged in Manchester Spirit

If you’ve ever watched old footage of Oasis and caught glimpses of a certain boxing champ flanking Noel and Liam, you know the story goes beyond casual acquaintance. The Gallagher brothers famously walked Ricky Hatton to the ring and proudly carried his championship belts during his epic fight against Paulie Malignaggi in Las Vegas back in 2008—a night Noel remembers as unforgettable.

Hatton was more than just a friend; he was part of the Mancunian fabric Noel so often sings about. He appeared at Oasis’s massive homecoming shows at Heaton Park this summer, reminding everyone just how closely intertwined their worlds were.

“We were texting each other last week... it is such a shame because he is a great Mancunian, and a lovely, lovely lad; he was one of us.” – Noel Gallagher

Texts, Tours, and True Companionship

Noel reminisced on TalkSport about more than just the fights and concerts. There was a moment on a South American tour when Ricky showed up with his friends, almost becoming an honorary band member for the week. That kind of friendship feels rare and precious—genuine and unpretentious.

The story of the Vegas night still makes Noel smile, even through the sadness. “It was one of the funniest nights ever,” he recalls. “An honor for us to carry his belts, but also a night full of laughs with him.”

Sadly, the Etihad Stadium won’t see Ricky’s cheer again, but his spirit remains stamped into those memories.

Watch: Noel Gallagher Pays Tribute to Ricky Hatton and Recalls Their Vegas Night

Liam Gallagher’s Own Farewell to a Friend

Following Noel’s heartfelt words, Liam Gallagher also expressed his grief on social media: “Absolutely devastated to hear the news about RICKY HATTON, it was an absolute honour to know him and carry his belts RIP CHAMP LIVE FOREVER.”

Ricky wasn’t just connected to the Gallaghers because of proximity or luck—he was a devoted Oasis fan, famously blending his passions for boxing, Manchester City, and the band itself.

“Ever since I was a kid, I wanted to be a boxing world champion, support Man City and listen to Oasis... and I became a four-time world champion with them as mates.” – Ricky Hatton

The Reunion and What Might Have Been

Before his untimely passing, Ricky shared his excitement about Oasis’s reunion earlier this year during a chat with Vegas Insider. He admitted he never expected the band to get back together after years of tension but was thrilled they did.

“Noel has said when the fallouts happen it’s over, but thankfully he’s swallowed his pride, and they’ve got back together. I’m made up. It’s exciting to see them perform the old songs and maybe make new ones—how good is that?” – Ricky Hatton

Watch: Noel Gallagher on ‘Council Skies’, AI Oasis, and More

Legacy of a True Mancunian

Ricky Hatton wasn’t just a sporting legend; he was a symbol of the gritty, warm-hearted spirit of Manchester. His friendship with Noel and Liam Gallagher brought two cultural icons together, bridging boxing’s raw power and Britpop’s magnetic charm.

As we remember him, it’s clear Ricky was “one of us” in every sense of the word—a man whose laughter, loyalty, and love for his city left an imprint on everyone fortunate enough to know him.

FAQ

• How did Noel Gallagher describe Ricky Hatton?
  Noel called him a “great Mancunian” and a “lovely, lovely lad,” emphasizing their close friendship and shared roots.
• When did Noel last communicate with Ricky Hatton?
  They were texting just days before Ricky’s death, and Noel saw him at the Heaton Park Oasis shows.
• What was the significance of the Vegas fight night?
  Noel and Liam carried Ricky’s championship belts in Las Vegas during his bout with Paulie Malignaggi in 2008, marking a memorable and fun night for all.
• Did Ricky attend Oasis’s reunion concerts?
  Yes, he was present at the massive homecoming shows at Heaton Park in the summer.
• What was Ricky Hatton’s view on Oasis’s reunion?
  He was thrilled they reunited, considering it unlikely at first but hopeful about new music and performances.

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