Ricky Hatton, former world champion, found dead at Manchester home
The popular British boxer known as 'the Hitman' won world titles at light‑welterweight and welterweight and was the focus of widespread tributes
Former world champion Ricky Hatton was found dead at his Manchester home on Sunday, British newspapers reported, prompting an outpouring of tributes across Monday’s front pages.
Hatton, nicknamed "the Hitman," won world titles at light‑welterweight and welterweight during a 15‑year professional career, finishing with 45 wins from 48 bouts. He last fought professionally in 2012 and remained one of Britain's best‑known fighters.
Monday's national papers led with tributes to Hatton. The Sun and the Daily Mirror both ran large front‑page headlines expressing condolences; the Mirror carried an eight‑page tribute inside. The Daily Telegraph featured Hatton as its main front‑page picture, while the Daily Star highlighted a tribute from former world champion Barry McGuigan.
Hatton's rise from local amateur to world champion made him a household name in British boxing. During his professional career he captured world honours and drew large crowds to venues across the UK and internationally. His style and persona made him a popular figure among boxing fans and a frequent subject of media coverage beyond the ring.
In 2023 he was the subject of a documentary titled Hatton in which he spoke about his personal life and struggles with mental health. The film saw renewed attention to his career and off‑ring challenges, and organisers of the boxing community and former colleagues paid tribute to his impact on the sport following news of his death.
No official cause of death has been disclosed. Media organisations and national papers reported the discovery on Sunday and carried tributes and retrospectives on Monday, reflecting Hatton's standing in British sport. Further details are expected as family statements or official confirmations are published.
Tributes from across the boxing world and wider sporting community were expected to continue as more information emerged. Hatton's career achievements and public discussions around his later‑life struggles have left a lasting imprint on British boxing and popular culture.