Ricky Hatton, one of Manchester's biggest sports figures, said he was extremely sad upon hearing about the recent Manchester bombings and calls that week "one of the worst weeks, if not the worst week" in Manchester history.
In an interview with PA Sport, Hatton said he never expected Manchester Arena, the site of the May 22 bombings that killed at least 22 and injured up to 115 people, to be subjugated to such tragedy. The arena served as home to many of Hatton's fights in England.
"My heart goes out to all the families and everyone that is connected," Hatton said. "I'm a very proud Mancunian, but it's absolutely heartwarming to see how Manchester has all rallied together. And that's what Manchester people are. We're a working class city, aren't we? We're working class people. You never expect it to be on your doorstep... Manchester Arena is like my second home. I must have had about 20 fights there over the years. I go there regularly to concerts."
Hatton also said his ex-girlfriend and mother to his children was at the venue the night prior.
"And just within the space of 24 hours, my kids could have lost their mum," Hatton said. "It's just a tragedy. And it's nice to see the city all rallying together and staying strong at such a tragic moment."
The bombings prompted authorities to increase security at various major events happening all over the country, including the Kell Brook vs. Errol Spence Jr. fight on May 27. Hatton, who retired from boxing in 2012, is a former welterweight and light welterweight champion.
