Ricky’s brother Matthew will captain ‘Team Hitman’ in a challenge game against a ‘Team Hatton’ side skippered by Ricky’s son Campbell at the Joie Stadium on the Etihad Campus. Kick-off is 14:15 (UK) and admission is just £10 for adults and £1 for Under-18s.
Pablo is honoured to be asked to be invited back to play in a match that will also see the return of former Blues like Joe Hart, Joleon Lescott, Toni Duggan, Shaun Goater, Paul Dickov, Nedum Onuoha, David James and Abbie McManus as well as more big football names in the shape of William Gallas, Wes Morgan and Des Walker.
Proceeds from the event will be donated to our City in the Community charity, with funds directed towards mental health and suicide prevention initiatives across the country. It will also be an opportunity to honour a sportsman who was a genuine champion both inside and outside the ring.
It is almost 14 months since we tragically lost the Hitman at the age of 46, but he will forever be remembered by the millions of fans who followed a magical odyssey that saw him emerge from humble beginnings in Hyde to win multiple world championship belts.
The Hitman really was ‘The People’s Champion.’ So it won’t come as a surprise that Zaba recognised a kindred spirit when he got to know Ricky after joining City in the summer of 2008.
“When I was asked if I would play in the game, I didn’t have to think twice,” said our serial-winning former Argentine defender.
“I met Ricky many times when I was playing for City. In fact, I clearly remember the last time I saw him. I was doing an event with Joe Hart and Noel Gallagher and Ricky was there as well. It’s a special memory because he spoke a little bit about when he was young and when he went into boxing.
“I’ve been thinking about how a boxer gets in the ring for a fight. Mentally, you must be so strong just to do that. You must be well prepared for it. It’s not for everybody! That’s why, whenever Ricky spoke about his experiences, I knew he was someone you should listen to.
“I think that when you go to the north of England, you find people with a different kid of courage. The people there are so hard-working. I think the reason Ricky meant so much to so many people is that he captured the spirit of Manchester. I think that’s why I always felt at home in the city.
“When I first started living in Manchester, I used to watch a lot of Ricky’s fights on TV. He was incredible. I don’t know how many times I got to meet him over the years, maybe eight or 10 times. But what I do remember is that it was never straight after a City match. Ricky wasn’t somebody who would just come into the dressing room because he was a star.
“I am proud that I got to know him a little at some of the events the club would arrange. It was always nice to talk to him. He was such a nice person - and a great City fan. I remember talking to him once and he said something like ‘oh, Zaba, I love this place. I love warriors like you who fight for my Club.’ Coming from someone like him, it was so special.
“It’s important for people to come and support the game because the money that is raised can make a difference. All the players involved in the game know that we can make a big impact on peoples’ lives. We all know that mental health is one of the main issues today for people. It’s important to support them, show them a little bit of love and care. I think we can make something very special for them.
“Sometimes when I was playing for City, I remember doing a lot of stuff in the community, like visiting people in hospitals, going into schools, and showing support to people who are going through difficult times. If we can all contribute, that would be huge, you know? Like I say, so many people are having difficult times these days and we all need to show our support.”
