Ricky Hatton, former world boxing champion and British sports icon, dies at 46 in Manchester, remembered for his fearless style and loyal fanbase

Published Time: 09-14-2025, 16:30

Ricky Hatton, one of Britain’s most celebrated boxing champions and a beloved figure in the sport, has died at the age of 46. The former two-weight world champion was found at his home in Greater Manchester on Sunday morning, according to Britain’s Press Association.

Police Confirm No Suspicious Circumstances

Greater Manchester Police reported that officers were called to Bowlacre Road in Hyde, Tameside, at approximately 6:45 a.m. local time. A 46-year-old man was pronounced dead at the scene.

In a statement, police said: “There are not currently believed to be any suspicious circumstances. We are working closely with the family to provide support and further updates.”

While police did not publicly confirm the identity of the man, multiple news outlets, including the Press Association, identified him as Ricky Hatton.

Tributes From the Boxing World

The news of Hatton’s passing prompted an outpouring of grief and remembrance from across the sporting community.

Former world champion Amir Khan wrote on X (formerly Twitter): “Today we lost not only one of Britain’s greatest boxers, but a friend, a mentor, a warrior, Ricky Hatton.”

Heavyweight champion Tyson Fury shared photos with Hatton on Instagram, saying: “There will only ever be one Ricky Hatton. Can’t believe this—so young. RIP legend.”

Hatton’s former promoter Frank Warren also paid tribute, describing him as “a superbly talented fighter who inspired a generation of young boxers and fans in a way very few had done before. He will rightly go down as one of the modern greats of this sport.”

A Career of Global Impact

Born in Stockport, England, Hatton rose through the amateur and domestic boxing circuits before becoming a household name worldwide. Known for his relentless pressure style and powerful body punches, he earned the nickname “The Hitman.”

Hatton captured world titles at light-welterweight and welterweight, cementing his place among boxing’s elite.

His most iconic victory came in 2005, when he defeated pound-for-pound great Kostya Tszyu at Manchester Arena to win the IBF super-lightweight title. In front of more than 22,000 fans, Tszyu was forced to retire on his stool—an upset that catapulted Hatton to international fame.

Battles With Mayweather and Pacquiao

At the height of his career, Hatton shared the ring with some of boxing’s biggest stars. In 2007, he faced Floyd Mayweather Jr. at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas. Despite a spirited performance, Hatton suffered his first professional loss.

Two years later, in 2009, Hatton fought Manny Pacquiao in another blockbuster bout, but was stopped in the second round. The defeat marked a turning point in his career, leading to his initial retirement.

Personal Struggles and Comeback

Following retirement, Hatton faced well-documented battles with depression, alcohol, and weight gain. Allegations of drug use also surfaced, adding to his struggles outside the ring.

Remarkably, in 2012, Hatton attempted a comeback against Vyacheslav Senchenko. Though he lost the fight, the fact he returned to the ring after such challenges was widely viewed as a personal triumph.

Hatton later transitioned to coaching, guiding Zhanat Zhakiyanov to a bantamweight world title in 2017.

Mental Health Advocacy

Hatton spoke openly about his struggles with mental health, often using his platform to encourage conversation about issues faced by athletes after retirement.

As Amir Khan reflected: “As fighters, we tell ourselves we’re strong—we train, we sweat, we take hits, we get up. But sometimes the hardest fight happens in silence, in the mind. Mental health isn’t weakness. It’s part of being human.”

This candor earned Hatton respect well beyond the boxing community and inspired many to seek help and support.

Manchester City Pays Tribute

Outside of boxing, Hatton was a lifelong supporter of Manchester City Football Club. Following his death, the club issued a statement:

“Ricky was one of City’s most loved and revered supporters, who will always be remembered for a glittering boxing career that saw him win world titles at welterweight and light-welterweight. Everyone at the club sends heartfelt condolences to his family and friends at this difficult time.”

The club confirmed a minute of appreciation for Hatton would be observed during Sunday’s Manchester derby against United.

A Legacy Beyond the Ring

Hatton’s popularity extended far beyond his victories. Known for his approachable personality and down-to-earth humor, he built a loyal fanbase that followed him from Manchester to Las Vegas and beyond.

In July 2025, just two months before his passing, Hatton had announced plans to return to the ring in December for an exhibition match against Eisa Al Dah in Dubai. The news of his death brought shock and sadness to fans who had anticipated his comeback.

Ricky Hatton leaves behind a legacy as one of Britain’s most popular fighters—admired not only for his achievements inside the ring but also for his resilience, honesty, and connection with fans