Family of Ricky Hatton pay tribute after boxing legend’s death

The former world champion, Ricky Hatton, died at home in Hyde yesterday (Sunday 14th September) at the age of 46.

Hatton, affectionately known as “The Hitman”, was one of Britain’s most beloved sportsmen, renowned both for his ferocious body punches inside the ring and his down-to-earth character outside of it.

Today, his family have issued a heartfelt statement paying tribute to him, describing their loss as “immeasurable.”

The statement read: “It is with the heaviest of hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved son Richard.

“Richard was so much more than a world champion. To us he was simply ‘Richard’, our son. A loving father, grandfather, and brother, and a true friend to many.

“He had a heart as big as his smile, and his kindness, humour and loyalty touched everyone who was lucky enough to know him.

“To the wider world, Richard will always be remembered as one of boxing’s greatest champions — a man who gave everything inside the ring and wore his heart on his sleeve outside of it.

“He inspired generations with his fighting spirit, his humility, and his love for the sport. But beyond the titles, the nights to remember, and the roar of the crowd, he remained the same down-to-earth Richard who never forgot where he came from.

“As a family, our loss is immeasurable, and words cannot truly capture the pain we feel. Yet in the midst of our grief, we have been deeply moved by the overwhelming outpouring of love and support.

“It has been a source of great comfort to see just how many lives Richard touched, and how widely he was admired and respected.

“At this time, we kindly ask for privacy as we come to terms with life without him. In the days and weeks ahead, we will take strength from one another and from the knowledge that Richard’s legacy — both in boxing and as a man — will continue to live on.

“Richard’s memory will forever remain in our hearts, in the hearts of his fans, and in the sport he loved so dearly.”

Greater Manchester Police confirmed that officers were called to Bowlacre Road, Hyde, at 6.45am on Sunday morning, where they found the body of a 46-year-old man. GMP confirmed there are no suspicious circumstances surrounding Hattons death.

Born in Stockport, Hatton rose from humble beginnings to the pinnacle of world boxing. Between 1997 and 2012, he captured multiple world titles at light-welterweight and added a welterweight crown, thrilling crowds with his relentless style.

His unforgettable 2005 victory over Kostya Tszyu at the Manchester Arena is still remembered as one of the greatest nights in British boxing history. Wins over José Luis Castillo and a string of title defences cemented his reputation as a fearless crowd-pleaser.

Hatton also shared the ring with all-time greats Floyd Mayweather Jr and Manny Pacquiao, before retiring in 2012. A decade later, he delighted fans with an exhibition bout against Mexican legend Marco Antonio Barrera in Manchester.

Away from the ring, Hatton’s struggles with mental health and addiction were well documented. He spoke openly about surviving suicide attempts and later reconciling with his family, using his platform to shed light on the challenges many men face.

Just months ago, Hatton had announced ambitious plans for a professional return, targeting a fight in December - 13 years after his last official bout.