Ricky Hatton found dead at 46; ex-girlfriend calls him an ‘inspiration’

Former world champion Ricky Hatton was found dead at his home in Greater Manchester on Sunday, police said, in a death that authorities are not treating as suspicious. The 46-year-old’s passing prompted an outpouring of tributes across the sporting world and from people who knew him personally.

Among those speaking publicly was Hatton’s recent ex-girlfriend, model Chelsea Claire, who described herself as “heartbroken” and called the former boxer an “inspiration” in an Instagram post. Claire, 32, said she felt lucky to have been Hatton’s partner and that he would be “missed so much,” posting a photograph of the pair together as she mourned his death.

Claire told the Sun that she met Hatton at The Dubliner bar in Tenerife in 2023 and that the relationship lasted about four months. She described a lively first meeting in which Hatton sang and danced, and said she had been hurt by suggestions their relationship was merely a fling, adding that she had been in love with him.

Police established a cordon outside Hatton’s home after he was discovered, but investigators said there were no suspicious circumstances. Friends of the boxer had expressed concern the night before when Hatton failed to appear at an event connected to one of his boxers, people familiar with the situation told reporters.

Hatton, nicknamed "The Hitman," rose from a working-class background in Stockport to become one of Britain’s most prominent fighters, holding world titles at light-welterweight. He fought high-profile bouts that drew huge attendances, including a noted clash with Floyd Mayweather that attracted some 30,000 spectators. Hatton was appointed an MBE in 2007 for services to sport.

After retiring from top-level competition, Hatton publicly struggled with depression and substance abuse before working to rebuild his health and life. He returned to training for exhibition bouts, including a recent showcase against Marco Antonio Barrera, and had announced plans for another exhibition fight shortly before his death.

Several people who had been close to Hatton paid tribute. Actress and former partner Claire Sweeney, who spent time with Hatton on Dancing On Ice earlier this year and remained friends after their relationship ended, posted messages of support and welcomed his comeback plans. Skating partner Robin Johnstone said she was "devastated" and recalled Hatton looking on with excitement while on the Torvill and Dean tour with his daughters.

Prominent boxers also reacted. Tyson Fury, Manny Pacquiao and Amir Khan were among those to pay public tribute to Hatton, praising his career and the connection he forged with fans. The boxing community noted Hatton’s role in popularising the sport in Britain and his magnetic following during his peak years.

On Sunday, the city of Manchester paid its respects. Hatton had been due to attend the Manchester derby, and a minute’s applause was observed on the pitch prior to kickoff in an emotional scene for players and supporters.

Hatton is survived by his children. Authorities said inquiries into the circumstances of his death were ongoing, but stressed there were no suspicious elements identified. Funeral arrangements had not been announced on Sunday.

Friends, former partners and members of the boxing fraternity reflected on Hatton’s achievements and struggles, noting both his sporting success and his efforts to address personal challenges in later years. The outpouring of tributes illustrated his enduring impact on British boxing and the many people who knew him outside the ring.