Ricky Hatton Found Dead at 46; Brother Matthew Pays Tribute

Ricky Hatton, the former world light-welterweight champion and one of Britain's best-known boxers, was found dead at his home in Greater Manchester on Sunday. Police said the death is not being treated as suspicious.

Hatton's younger brother, former boxer Matthew Hatton, posted a collage of photographs on social media and wrote, "I love you Richard. See you on the other side X," using their shared given name. Mourners gathered at the fighter's home and left floral tributes and boxing gloves as friends and fans expressed shock at the news.

The news prompted immediate reaction across the boxing world. Tyson Fury wrote on Instagram, "RIP to the legend, Ricky Hatton. There will only be one Ricky Hatton. Can't believe this, so young," alongside a photograph of the two fighters training. Amir Khan posted a lengthy message paying tribute to Hatton as "one of Britain's greatest boxers, but a friend, a mentor, a warrior," and used the post to urge greater openness about mental health, writing that "Mental health isn't weakness. It's part of being human. And we must talk about it. We must reach out. We must lean on each other." Promoter Frank Warren posted on X that he was "extremely saddened" and described Hatton as "a superbly talented fighter who inspired a generation," recalling the 1997 debut in Widnes and Hatton's landmark victory over Kostya Tszyu in Manchester.

Daily Mail Sport reported that friends had been concerned when Hatton failed to appear at an event featuring one of his boxers the night before his body was discovered. Hatton had been due to attend the Manchester derby at the Etihad Stadium on Sunday and had a corporate hospitality table; there was a minute's applause at the stadium before kick-off to mark his death.

Hatton, 46, retired from professional boxing in 2012 and later worked as a trainer and coach. He had been preparing for a planned return to the ring in December, according to reports. He was awarded an MBE for services to sport in 2007.

During and after his fighting career, Hatton was widely admired for his aggressive, crowd-pleasing style and his connection to British boxing fans. He rose from domestic success to become a world champion and was celebrated for the atmosphere he brought to contests both in Britain and abroad.

Hatton also spoke publicly about struggles with mental health and drug addiction. In his later years he discussed periods of depression and the challenges of life after elite competition, subjects that figures across the sport referenced in their tributes on Sunday.

Authorities have not released further details while inquiries continue. The death has prompted an outpouring of messages from fellow fighters, promoters and supporters, who reflected on Hatton's career, his popularity with fans and his openness about personal struggles.

Hatton is survived by his family, who have not yet issued a full statement. The boxing community and wider sporting world have indicated plans to mark his life and career in the coming days.