Boxing Legend Ricky Hatton Found Dead at 46
HYDE, England – Former boxing world champion Ricky Hatton, affectionately nicknamed “The Hitman,” has died at the age of 46. Police confirmed that a body was discovered on Sunday morning at a residence in Hyde, Greater Manchester. Officers said the death is not being treated as suspicious.
Hatton was one of Britain’s most celebrated fighters, winning the WBA, IBO, and IBF light-welterweight titles as well as the WBA welterweight championship during a glittering 15-year career that ended in 2012. He recorded 45 victories in 48 fights, with his defining moment coming in 2005 when he defeated Australia’s Kostya Tszyu in Manchester to claim the IBF light-welterweight crown.
The World Boxing Association paid tribute on Instagram, calling him “a true champion, an indomitable spirit and a legend of the sport. Your legacy will live on in every fight and in the hearts of boxing fans around the world.”
Despite his success in the ring, Hatton was candid about his personal battles. In 2016, he revealed to the BBC that he had struggled with depression, alcohol, and drugs after retirement, at times attempting to take his own life. In 2023, he became an ambassador for the mental health charity Campaign Against Living Miserably, using his platform to encourage others to seek help.
Hatton’s unbeaten streak of 43 fights came to an end in 2007 when he was defeated by Floyd Mayweather Jr. Two years later, he suffered a devastating knockout loss to Manny Pacquiao, who led the tributes on Sunday. “He was not only a great fighter inside the ring but also a brave and kind man in life,” Pacquiao wrote on X. “We shared unforgettable moments in boxing history and I will always honour the respect and sportsmanship he showed.”
British former champion Amir Khan also paid homage, describing Hatton as “a friend, a mentor, a warrior.” He added: “Ricky, thank you for everything… you’ll always have your place in the ring of our memories.”
A devoted Manchester City supporter, Hatton often wore the club’s sky-blue colours in his bouts. The Premier League side honoured him with a powerful minute of applause before their derby clash with Manchester United, with both sets of fans standing in respect.
“Ricky was one of City’s most loved and revered supporters,” the club said in a statement. “Everyone at Manchester City sends heartfelt condolences to his family and friends.”
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