The 28-year-old fighting phenomenon spoke of how proud he was, saying he would remember it forever.
"It's one of the greatest days of my life. I knew from a young age that I could do reasonably well at boxing but to achieve something like this, it's well beyond anything I could have dreamt. It's a day that will stay with me until the day I die."
In June, Manchester`s "Hitman Hatton" won with a fourth-round stoppage against Jose Luis Castillo in a light-welterweight contest in Las Vegas.
The triumph underlined his status as the best 140lb fighter in the world.
Of the palace ceremony, Hatton said: "It was quite nerve-racking actually. Obviously in the esteemed company of the royal family, you want to do yourself proud."
The sports star, who does a great deal of charity work, spoke about the importance he places on how he conducts himself out of the ring.
"It's what you do outside the ropes. I don't really have a bad word to say about anyone. You get people that sometimes don't know how to respect. You win your belts but it is the love of the fans that's priceless. It's nice when people call me a people's champion."
He was joined by his girlfriend Jennifer, mother Carol and father Ray.
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Well done ricky, could'nt have happened to a nicer guy.
Bet your parents are really proud of you (note to other user comment -: no colour claims in this comment)
Well done Ricky - respect is certainly something you have acquired & you've sure earned it ! AND ....... i bet even you know that your missus doesn't like you for your looks !! Keep battering 'em .... legend status awaits !!
well done ricky. true blue
Ricky, top man & true blue! Your achievements make a mockery of the system in that you have literally 'sweated blood' to further your career in the toughest of all trades, that of professional boxer. The prima donna footballers and other 'non-contact' sports and yet, amazingly are 'recognised', have certainly chosen easy route. The 140lbs limit has always been one of the toughest weights, Jimmy Wilde, Ken Buchanan, Roberto Duran, etc
Glad u've got the cuts under control now as that was always my big worry for you, never doubted ur ability or dedication.
Your Mum&Dad, Jennifer, and all your mates must be the proudest folks on the planet. God Bless you.
ANDY(10)
Well done Ricky short of Ryan Giggs I cant think of another more deserving of an MBE that doesnt already have one. The picture doesnt add up though !!
Being a Republican I don't agree with all this honour stuff but if anyone deserves an award from sport it's Ricky. CTID, top bloke and a world champ.
Being a Loyalist i am very proud of you Hitman...
MCFC No Surrender !