I found it hard to sleep last night after hearing this just before I got into bed.

Still shocked. First fight I saw of him was Wilson Rodriguez fight and I just thought - wow. Tried to catch every fight after that if possible. Was never the greatest fighter but is third on my all time favourite fighters list for sure after Ali and Benn.

I would have loved to see him fight in the flesh though was kind of glad a fight with Hatton never arose because I would have been in Gatti's corner for that one.

Not sure who said it in The Ring, maybe Jack Ryan, but they summed his career up by saying a few years ago (as best I can remember) "Arturo Gatti may not be one of the greats but he is a fighter who will guarantee you have underpaid for your ticket, even if ringside, every time he steps into the ring".

I had considered making the IBHOF trip for his (undoubted) inaugration in 3 years time as it would have coincided with my 40th birthday - two days after Gatti's would have been.

I like to play as Gatti in Fight Night but don't think I am going to be able to do so just yet

Legend

RIP Arturo - I doubt boxing will ever see your kind again.