Hitman: Horse named after Ricky Hatton wins first race since boxer’s death in the Old Roan Chase at Aintree

Hitman, named after Ricky Hatton, won his first race since the boxer’s death – and his first in three years – in the Old Roan Chase at Aintree.

The Paul Nicholls-trained nine-year-old finished two lengths ahead of Master Chewie and co-owner Jed Mason said the £45,560 prize money would be donated to the Ricky Hatton Foundation.

“I’m very happy that we can help in some way in memory of Ricky and his legacy. The family has set up the foundation and the proceeds will start today,” Mason told Racing TV.

Hatton was found dead in his home in Manchester in September, at the age of 46.

The two-weight world champion was nicknamed “The Hitman” throughout his boxing career.

Hatton’s manager and long-time friend Paul Speake watched jockey Freddie Jingle lead the Hitman to victory at Aintree.

“I hope he’s out there looking at us and smiling at us,” Speck said.

Hitman was bought by Hatton’s friends Mason and former Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson in 2021 because of the name – even though Hatton himself was allergic to horses.