Manny Pacquiao under fire for 'totally disrespectful' Ricky Hatton video

Manny Pacquiao has received widespread criticism for a video he shared of Ricky Hatton online.

Back in September 2025, the sporting world was sent into a state of shock by the tragic news that Ricky Hatton passed away at the age of 46.

A pre-inquest review revealed in March that Hatton took his own life, causing heartbreak for a nation that adored him and leaving behind incredible memories of his boxing career.

The Englishman won multiple world championships across two weight classes while boasting an exceptional record.

Hatton won 45 of his 48 fights in the ring, including impressive title victories against the undisputed Kostya Tszyu in 2005 and Paulie Malignaggi in 2008.

'The Hitman' even tested himself against some of the greatest boxers of all-time. Hatton lost to Floyd Mayweather Jr in December 2007 in Las Vegas, with the second defeat of his career coming against Manny Pacquiao 18 months later.

In one of the most iconic fights in modern boxing history, Pacquiao famously knocked the Englishman out in the second round to win the light welterweight championship in Las Vegas.

The pair went on to have a friendly and respectful rivalry after their battle in the ring, but despite this, fans weren't happy that the Filipino fighter posted a video of him knocking out Hatton and captioned it: "Was an honor sharing the ring with the great Ricky Hatton."

Was an honor sharing the ring with the great Ricky Hatton. 🇵🇭 🇬🇧 pic.twitter.com/cHIxtIygHZ

— Manny Pacquiao (@MannyPacquiao) July 9, 2026

Unsurprisingly, supporters of the late Hatton weren't happy with the post, and one fan wrote: "Totally disrespectful video."

"Delete this. Poor taste," another said, while a third person commented: "You honour him by showing footage of him being brutally KOed? Are you a touch slow?"

"Whoever is running this account could have posted the first minute of round one at least. Just out of respect," someone else replied.

What Manny Pacquiao said about Ricky Hatton

Although the 47-year-old was criticised for this post, it is clear that Pacquiao had huge respect for Hatton following their battle 17 years ago.

The former eight-time division champion led the tributes after his death was confirmed, writing: "I am deeply saddened to hear about the passing of Ricky Hatton. 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."

The feelings were also mutual from Hatton, too, as when sharing his verdict before Pacquiao returned to the ring against Mario Barrios in July 2025, he questioned his decision but also praised him.

"I mean, for someone so iconic to do what he has achieved – and be a multi-weight world champion – and go down as one of the greatest in history, he must have the money," Hatton said in May last year.

“Look at his record and look at the bank balance, so why does he need this one?

“If he ended up getting beat, I think it would be a tragedy for the sport.

“Manny Pacquiao was the best pound-for-pound fighter in the world and won so many championships, but he’s been retired for four or five years."

Pacquiao ended up producing an incredible performance as the fight ended in a majority draw, with Barrios retaining his WBC welterweight title.