The community was left reeling back in September 2025 when the news came in that iconic boxer Ricky Hatton had passed away. Ricky was given a proper Manc send off, with a huge memorial and funeral with guests including Wayne Rooney and Paddy McGuinness, and now Manchester is set to come together for an unforgettable night as ‘An Evening4Ricky‘ takes over the AO Arena, in memory of The Hitman.
On Sunday 7th June, the event will bring together stars from sport, music and entertainment to celebrate Ricky’s life and legacy, while raising vital funds and awareness that mental health matters. This is a chance for his fans and the people of Manchester to celebrate, sing, dance, laugh, and encourage conversations in The Hitman’s name.
What to expect at An Evening4Ricky
Hosted at event partner, the AO Arena, the venue that staged 15 of Ricky’s unforgettable fight nights, the star-studded event will see the arena floor transform into a reimagined, boxing-style stage. Featuring live performances from some of Ricky’s favourite music artists, heartfelt tributes from those who knew him best, comedians, entertainers and fellow sports stars – the event will also be broadcast in the UK and globally.
On the guest list already signed up are: Paddy McGuinness, Frank Bruno, The Ks, Prince Naz, Jason Manford, Phil ‘The Power’ Taylor, Natasha Jonas, Clare Sweeney, DJ Spoony, Paulie Malignaggi, Marco Antonio Barrera, Rowetta, Steph Houghton, Tony Bellew, Michael Watson. There are loads more legends and stars to be announced over the next few weeks along with an all-star music line-up.
Across 12 “rounds” of world-class entertainment, audiences will experience a unique blend of sporting legends, live music, boxing icons, comedy, and special guest appearances. Alongside this, immersive fan experiences will bring the evening to life, as everything comes together in tribute to a true people’s champion.
Campbell Hatton, Ricky’s son and co-founder of the Ricky Hatton Foundation, said: “This night means everything to our family. My dad gave so much to the fans and to Manchester, and this is about bringing everyone together to celebrate his legacy. It’s going to be emotional, but also full of energy, laughter and great memories.
“We can’t wait to see the city, his friends, peers, and those who played such a huge part in his career come out for him once more. We’ve been speaking to so many legends and stars from the worlds of sport, music and comedy — invites have gone out to some of dad’s closest mates, including Wayne Rooney, Phil Foden, Freddie Flintoff, and many more footballers, alongside boxing greats like Usyk, Fury and AJ. It’s shaping up to be something really special.
“Dad loved his music, was friends with so many performers, so it’ll be great to see some amazing live performances from singers and bands who meant a lot to him. I’m also really looking forward to Manchester’s poet, Tony Walsh, performing his brand-new poem dedicated to Dad, delivered from the centre of the ring on the night.”
The Ricky Hatton Foundation
Funds raised will go towards supporting the Ricky Hatton Foundation – which will be officially unveiled on the night – and other national and local mental health charity partners, all of which carry out vital work in mental health support and wellbeing.
Further plans are also underway with Legends SG for a follow-up event, ‘Game4Ricky‘, an internationally broadcast legends and celebrity football match scheduled for autumn this year.
How to get tickets for An Evening4Ricky
Ticket prices for Evening4Ricky start from just £25, ensuring the night remains accessible to the community that supported Ricky throughout his career.
Tickets are expected to be in high demand and are available here.