Back in May of this year, 2024, the boxer Ricky Hatton participated in the “My Football” segment for the FourFourTwo periodical, where prominent individuals from outside the world of association football delve into their enthusiasm for the sport.
Tell us about your very first football match experience.
It involved Manchester City squaring off against Huddersfield Town, dating back to 1987. At that time, I likely hadn’t yet reached the age of ten. I come from a family with a substantial number of Manchester City enthusiasts, so my inclination towards the “sky blues” was already pretty strong; however, the score of that particular contest, which ended with City winning 10-1, cemented my allegiance! My uncle accompanied me, and we were situated towards the rear of the North Stand at Maine Road. For a debut match, it was an incredible experience. It was uncommon for City supporters to witness such a high-scoring result back then.
Could you share who your childhood idol was, and whether you ever had the chance to meet them?
I admired many players, including Ian Brightwell, Andy Morrison, Paul Lake, and Paul Dickov, among others. However, if I had to single someone out, it would be Georgi Kinkladze, with whom I’ve been fortunate enough to develop a strong friendship. He was truly exceptional. During Georgi’s time with the club, City didn’t have a lot to celebrate, but whenever he possessed the ball, something extraordinary would occur. Witnessing him challenging defenders was a remarkable spectacle.
What aspects of attending a football game do you cherish the most?
In more recent times, it’s the superb play and internationally recognized talents who’ve donned the team’s colors over the past several campaigns. I recall the earlier times when we found ourselves relegated to the lower tier and the team wasn’t performing well. I’d dedicate my entire day to traveling on various buses just to make it to Maine Road, only to see us suffer a 2-1 defeat against teams like Grimsby Town, and I’d arrive home completely drenched around nine in the evening. During my formative years, I never imagined that City would achieve the level of success they currently enjoy.
If you could bring back a former player to enhance the current squad, who would that be?
I would consider Mike Summerbee or Colin Bell – a more seasoned player from past eras. Bell was a remarkable talent. Nevertheless, thinking about more recent times, David Silva is my choice. He could very well be the most accomplished player City has ever had.
Can you name a player you admire even though they never represented your club?
Diego Maradona – I think he was the greatest player in history. The moves he could pull off with that ball were mind-blowing. I frequently find myself watching videos of him, even just his warm-ups. His love for the ball was apparent; it almost never left his control. Lionel Messi is another obvious choice. I hoped he might have joined City at some point, especially with Pep Guardiola and several other Argentinian players already at the club, but it wasn’t meant to be.
What’s the best venue where you’ve ever watched a football match?
[Laughs] Well, I’ve got to mention my visit to Old Trafford in 2011 to witness that 6-1 victory! That game was remarkable. Besides that, I truly miss the atmosphere at Maine Road. The ambiance there was incredible, with everyone standing and passionately participating. There are also some stunning modern stadiums now, such as Tottenham’s and Arsenal’s.
What were your celebrations like after the Treble victory in 2023-24?
Well, fortunately, I can say that I attended all three events, so I achieved my own personal treble! Istanbul was a challenge; the travel schedules were tough, and the stadium was quite distant from the city center where we were lodged. Thankfully, it all paid off in the end. Had we not won, I might have been looking for someone to trade blows with [Laughs].
What’s the most amusing or odd occurrence you’ve witnessed or heard during a match?
I’m struggling to recall anything specific, but it would likely involve Mario Balotelli. He was quite the character.
Which City player, past or present, would have excelled as a boxer?
Although he’s the most amiable guy you could meet, I’d have to pick the robust Andy Morrison. He’s as wide as he is tall! He’s not someone I’d want to cross paths with. As a teenager watching City play, I saw him as a completely straightforward and formidable presence on the field.
Which City players frequently attended your boxing matches?
I was fortunate that numerous players from both Manchester clubs came to watch my fights, which brought the city together in a way. Paul Dickov, Micah Richards, and Nicky Weaver were all regular attendees, along with Michael Carrick, Nicky Butt, and Wayne Rooney from United. I had tremendous support from Manchester in general. I also used to receive a phone call from Sir Alex Ferguson before significant fights, offering his and the team’s best wishes, which was a classy gesture.
Did you receive any negative feedback from City supporters for inviting Wayne Rooney to carry your championship belts into the ring on one occasion?!
I don’t believe I did, although perhaps there were murmurs in certain social circles. But no one ever confronted me directly about it. I’ve always held Wayne in high regard. He’s down-to-earth and unpretentious. He played football with undeniable passion, and I’d like to believe that I boxed in a similar manner.
What’s the most peculiar location where you’ve encountered a manager or player?
It might not be all that unusual, but when I had my bout against Jose Luis Castillo in Las Vegas in 2007, it seemed like half of the Premier League was there! It was during the summer break, so they were able to unwind and were less concerned about the paparazzi in the States. If you looked one way, you’d see players gambling, and another way, they were lined up at the bar. It was quite surreal – like stepping into a Panini sticker album.
What’s the most cherished piece of memorabilia that you possess or wish you still had?
I’ve got photos and various items displayed in my games room, but when we secured the First Division title in 2002, I managed to obtain Kevin Keegan’s winner’s medal from him, which is fantastic. I always got along well with Keegan.
What’s the most memorable goal you’ve ever seen in person?
I have to give it to AGUEROOOOOOOO in 2012. That goal carries so much importance – I feel incredibly proud of that day and how we edged out United for the title. Something like that will probably never be seen again. But talking about skill, Georgi Kinkladze scored a brilliant goal against Southampton back in 1996 where he weaved through their entire team from almost the halfway line. He got to their goalkeeper and simply chipped the ball over him.
Who do you consider your favorite player right now?
That’s a difficult choice at the moment, considering we have world-class players like Haaland, Foden, Stones – the list goes on. But if I had to pick, I’d lean towards Bernardo Silva. He puts in immense effort and is all over the field. He’s a true talent.
If you could include yourself in your ultimate five-a-side team, who else would be in it?
I’d have Tony Coton in goal. It was heartbreaking when he went over to the red side of Manchester, but I think he was the best keeper globally when he played for us. Then I’d have David Silva and Georgi Kinkladze, of course, and we’ll finish with Sergio Aguero leading the attack. I’ll just hang around in the middle and let them take care of everything!
