Former world champion Ricky Hatton found dead at home in Manchester aged 46
Greater Manchester Police say there are no suspicious circumstances after boxing icon was discovered at his Hyde home weeks after announcing a return to the ring
Ricky Hatton, the former world light-welterweight champion, was found dead at his home in Greater Manchester on Sunday morning, police said. He was 46.
Greater Manchester Police said officers were called by a member of the public to Bowlacre Road in Hyde, Tameside, at 6:45 a.m., where they found the body of a 46-year-old man. "There are not currently believed to be any suspicious circumstances," the force said. A police cordon was in place outside the property.
Friends and colleagues expressed concern after Hatton missed an engagement on Saturday evening connected to one of his boxers, and Daily Mail Sport reported acquaintances became worried when he did not attend. Hatton had announced a return to the ring in July and was due to fight Eisa Al Dah of the United Arab Emirates on Dec. 2 in Dubai. Two days before his death he posted footage of an intense punching-bag session as part of his preparations, captioning the clip: "Thursday session in the bag. #hitman #bluemoon #getupthereboy."
Hatton rose from a modest upbringing in Greater Manchester to become one of Britain’s most recognisable fighters. He compiled 45 victories in 48 professional bouts over a 15-year career, capturing multiple world and domestic titles. His most notable wins included victories over Kostya Tszyu and Jose Luis Castillo. He also suffered high-profile defeats in world titles fights against Floyd Mayweather Jr. and Manny Pacquiao.
After retiring from competitive boxing, Hatton moved into coaching and remained a prominent figure in British boxing. He was awarded an MBE in 2007 for services to sport. He was a lifelong Manchester City supporter and was due to attend the Manchester derby at the Etihad Stadium on Sunday, with a table booked in a corporate hospitality area.
Hatton publicly discussed struggles with mental health and drug addiction in recent years. He leaves a son, Campbell.
Current and former fighters paid tribute on social media. Former world champion Amir Khan wrote: "Today we lost not only one of Britain’s greatest boxers, but a friend, a mentor, a warrior, Ricky Hatton." Others described Hatton as a fierce competitor and an influential trainer.
Greater Manchester Police said inquiries are ongoing but provided no further details about the circumstances of Hatton’s death. The boxing community and sports organisations were expected to issue additional statements as details emerged.
Hatton’s career and return to the ring had drawn attention in British sport, with promoters and broadcasters noting his status as a drawcard in the domestic fight scene. He will be remembered for his aggressive style, his run of high-profile domestic and international fights and his later role developing fighters as a coach.