Former world champion Ricky Hatton found dead at 46; death not being treated as suspicious

Ricky Hatton, the former world light-welterweight champion, was found dead at his home in Greater Manchester on Sunday morning. A spokesperson for Greater Manchester Police said officers were called to Bowlacre Road in Hyde, Tameside at 6:45 a.m. where they found the body of a 46-year-old man; the circumstances are not currently believed to be suspicious.

Hatton had announced plans to return to the ring, with a fight reportedly scheduled for December, after several years focused on coaching. In the weeks before his death, actress and former Dancing On Ice partner Claire Sweeney shared a social post supporting his comeback, posting a video of the announcement with the caption "This is brilliant." The pair, who were reported to have dated earlier in 2024, remained close friends after ending their relationship.

Friends and colleagues said concern grew when Hatton missed an engagement on Saturday evening involving one of his boxers. Hatton had been a prominent figure in British boxing since turning professional in the late 1990s, winning world titles and earning an MBE for services to sport in 2007. After retiring from competition, he worked as a trainer and public figure while periodically discussing struggles with mental health and past drug addiction.

Public tributes to Hatton began appearing across social media from athletes, entertainers and colleagues. Olympian Greg Rutherford, who skated alongside Hatton on the 2024 series of Dancing On Ice, called the news "utterly heartbreaking," and recalled conversations they had about mental health. David Beckham wrote that Hatton was "one of a kind" and shared a photograph from the boxer's career, while other Dancing On Ice cast members described him as kind and generous.

Hatton competed at the highest levels of the sport and was widely known as "The Hitman." His career included notable wins and a long-standing connection with British boxing fans. He had publicly acknowledged battles outside the ring, speaking about his mental-health challenges and rehabilitation efforts in recent years.

Sweeney, 54, told media outlets earlier this year that she and Hatton had known each other for decades before their relationship, and that they remained on friendly terms after splitting in December 2024. A source quoted by a national newspaper said the pair had decided they were "better off as pals" due to different lifestyles but had enjoyed time together, including a holiday in Tenerife.

Greater Manchester Police said inquiries were ongoing but reiterated that there were no suspicious circumstances at this stage. No further details about the cause of death were released on Sunday.

Hatton's death prompted reactions across sport and entertainment, with former colleagues and rivals paying tribute to his achievements and character. Several public figures referenced Hatton's openness about his personal struggles and the support he had offered others facing similar issues.

Arrangements and any further statements from Hatton's family or representatives had not been confirmed as of Sunday evening. Police asked anyone with information relevant to the investigation to contact Greater Manchester Police through the published channels.

Ricky Hatton rose to prominence in the professional ranks in the early 2000s, becoming a two-time world light-welterweight champion and one of Britain's most recognisable fighters. In later years he remained involved in the sport through coaching and promotion while taking part in television projects, including Dancing On Ice, which brought him a new public profile beyond boxing. Tributes emphasised both his sporting legacy and his role as a mentor to younger fighters.