Ricky Hatton led Floyd Mayweather a merry dance with iconic pre-fight antics

The boxing world is in mourning following the tragic news of Ricky 'The Hitman' Hatton's death at the age of 46. News of his passing emerged on Sunday with Greater Manchester Police confirming a body had been found at the former world champion's home.

Hatton was one of British boxing's finest during his prime and was involved in some of the sport's biggest fights, including bouts against Floyd Mayweather and Manny Pacquiao. As tributes to the 'The Hitman' continue to be shared, countless iconic moments from his glittering boxing career have been recalled.

Some have eulogised about Hatton's ability to talk the talk as well as walk the walk, with IFL TV sharing a video featuring some of the best moments of the superb pre-fight press conference involving Hatton and Mayweather before their blockbuster bust-up back in 2007.

More than 30,000 raucous Brits descended on Las Vegas to support Hatton as he fought Mayweather for the WBO World title back in December 2007. And while it was Mayweather who emerged victorious, it was Hatton who stole the show in the build-up to the fight.

READ MORE: Ricky Hatton dead: Boxing icon, 46, found at home as tributes pour in - updates

READ MORE: Ricky Hatton tribute plans confirmed for Man Utd vs Man City in Manchester derby

A montage of some of Hatton's words were put together ahead with the Brit mocking Mayweather's dancing as he was introduced, quipping: “Thank you for that reception. I'm sure the crowd would like to agree with me that if he dances like that in Dancing With The Stars, then he's got f***ing no chance,” referencing his rivals' stint on the iconic American television show.

“I’ve missed my son, my six-year-old son, but I probably haven’t missed him quite as much as you would think because I’ve been fortunate to spend the full week with another f***ing six-year-old,” was another golden line as Hatton let rip on the mic.

Referencing the expectation that Mayweather would prove to be elusive in the ring, he delivered another superb line, saying: “Floyd’s gonna run away all night – he says he isn’t, but he is – he’s gonna run away all night and I know I’m gonna have to be fast on my feet to catch him. So I’ve got two wonderful sparring partners coming in – Forrest Gump and Carl Lewis.”

Speaking some years after the fight, Hatton told BBC Sport: “I look back with pride, not disappointment. Even the Mayweather defeat - it was such an occasion and it was against the best.

READ MORE: Tyson Fury shares emotional Ricky Hatton tribute after boxing legend's sad death

READ MORE: Ricky Hatton will forever be remembered for the night he broke Kosta Tszyu's heart

“Las Vegas... how many stars have had their name up in lights? Mayweather is one of them. But you can't get near them.

“I'd go in the bar, have pictures, get a coffee and ask lads where they were over from. Even the Brits were looking at me like I was not all there. But to Las Vegas people, who were used to seeing stars you can't get near, I was the opposite.”

Hatton was in training for a comeback to the ring in December before news of his sad passing broke. Pacquiao, who beat Hatton in another huge fight in 2009, was among those who penned a tribute to one of British boxing's finest.

"I am deeply saddened to hear about the passing of Ricky Hatton," he wrote on X. "He was not only a great fighter inside the ring but also a brave and kind man in life.

"We shared unforgettable moments in boxing history and I will always honor the respect and sportsmanship he showed. Ricky fought bravely, not just in the ring, but in his journey through life.

"He truly had a good fight, and we are all blessed to have been part of his wonderful journey. My prayers and deepest condolences go out to the Hatton family and all his loved ones. May the Lord give you strength and comfort in this difficult time. May he rest in peace."