Hatton hails 'true British legend'

Ricky Hatton paid tribute to fellow folk hero Sir Henry Cooper after former heavyweight challenger's death.

Former world heavyweight title challenger passes away at 76

Ricky Hatton paid tribute to fellow folk hero Sir Henry Cooper as "a true British legend" following the former world heavyweight title challenger's death. The Londoner passed away at the age of 76 following a battle with illness and will be remembered as one of the country's favourite sporting sons. Boxing luminaries ranging from Cooper's friend and former opponent Muhammad Ali to current heavyweight champion David Haye have paid tribute to the former British, European and Commonwealth title-holder. Former two-weight world champion Hatton, who like Cooper and Frank Bruno managed to truly transcend the sport, insists the veteran's personality and fistic achievements will ensure he remains forever in the hearts of the British public. The Mancunian said in a statement: "It was a sad day for British boxing. "He is a true British legend and 'Our 'Enry' will be sadly missed, but he won't be forgotten by fight fans. My condolences go to Sir Henry's family." Cooper will be remembered for his 1963 fight with Ali when he floored the American - then still called Cassius Clay - with his famous left hook and was seconds from victory before losing on cuts in the next round. The two men met again three years later when Ali was again victorious and the pair remained friends over the years.