Boxing Legend Ricky Hatton Dies at 46—Found Dead at Home in Greater Manchester

Richard “Ricky” Hatton, a former world boxing champion and beloved figure in British sport, has died at the age of 46. His body was discovered early Sunday morning at his residence on Bowlacre Road in Gee Cross, Hyde, Greater Manchester. Greater Manchester Police confirmed that the death is not being treated as suspicious.

Hatton, widely known by his nickname “The Hitman,” had an illustrious career between 1997 and 2012. He held world titles at light-welterweight and welterweight and amassed a professional record of 45 wins (32 by knockout) and 3 losses.

His most celebrated triumph came in 2005, when he defeated Kostya Tszyu to claim the IBF light-welterweight title. His first professional loss came in 2007 at the hands of Floyd Mayweather Jr., followed by high-profile bouts against the likes of Manny Pacquiao.

In 2012, Hatton attempted a brief comeback, only to retire again following a knockout loss to Vyacheslav Senchenko. He later participated in an exhibition bout against Marco Antonio Barrera in 2022. Earlier this year, Hatton announced plans for another comeback fight in Dubai, scheduled for December 2, against UAE fighter Eisa Al Dah.

Beyond his ring exploits, Hatton was candid about his personal struggles, battling with depression, alcohol, and drug addiction in the years following his retirement. He had spoken openly of his attempts on his own life, becoming an important voice in raising awareness of mental health issues.

Fans, fellow fighters, and public figures have flooded social media with tributes. Amir Khan described him as “one of Britain’s greatest boxers” and a “mentor, a warrior,” emphasizing the imperative of mental health awareness. Tyson Fury added: “There will only ever be one Ricky Hatton.” The sporting world mourns the loss of a figure whose courage and charisma extended far beyond the ring.

Sources: Reuters, The Guardian, Sky Sports, The Independent, BBC News