The sports world is in mourning tonight after the shocking and sudden death of boxing icon Ricky Hatton, the British legend beloved for his warrior spirit and underdog charm.
But what stunned fans even more was the sight of Los Angeles Dodgers manager Dave Roberts — yes, the MLB World Series–winning skipper — boarding a last-minute flight to Manchester just hours after the news broke.
Sources close to Roberts revealed the emotional depth of his connection to Hatton, telling reporters that Roberts called Hatton “a true fighter, inside and outside the ring.” Before leaving, Roberts told media at LAX:
“I wanted to be with him for the last time. Ricky inspired me, inspired millions. He taught us to keep fighting no matter how many times life knocks you down.”
Witnesses say Roberts was visibly emotional, with tears streaming down his face as he hugged fans before heading through security. Social media has erupted with admiration, with one Dodgers fan writing: “This is why we love Doc — he leads with heart on and off the field.”
Hatton’s funeral is expected to become one of the most emotional sporting farewells of the decade, with boxing royalty like Tyson Fury, Floyd Mayweather, and Manny Pacquiao rumored to attend — and now MLB royalty joining them.
The Dodgers have already announced a moment of silence at their next home game to honor Hatton, showing that his influence transcended sports and touched lives worldwide.