Ricky Hatton found dead; son Campbell pays emotional tribute

Ricky Hatton, the former two-weight world boxing champion, was found dead at his home in Hyde, Greater Manchester, on Sunday, Greater Manchester Police said, and his son Campbell described himself as "heartbroken" in an emotional public tribute.

Police said there were not believed to be any suspicious circumstances surrounding the 46-year-old's death. In the first public comment since the news emerged, Campbell Hatton posted a series of photographs on Instagram on Tuesday and wrote: "Heartbroken isn't the word. Everybody has always said I was your double - never a truer word said. Looked up to you in every aspect of life. Can't explain how much I'm going to miss the laughs we had and all the good times, which I will remember forever. Just can't believe we won't have any more. Love you, Dad."

Hatton won 45 of his 48 professional fights over a 15-year career and held world titles at light-welterweight and welterweight. Nicknamed "the Hitman," he was one of British boxing's most popular figures, known for his combative style in the ring and his distinctive personality outside it. An estimated 30,000 fans travelled to Las Vegas to watch his 2007 title fight against Floyd Mayweather.

Hatton last fought professionally in 2012 but had publicly discussed plans to return to the ring later this year, with a proposed comeback scheduled for October. His family issued a statement on Monday expressing gratitude for the outpouring of support and describing him as having "a heart as big as his smile," adding that his kindness, humour and loyalty touched those who knew him.

Campbell Hatton, who had also pursued a professional boxing career, retired earlier this year after winning his first 14 bouts. The younger Hatton had often been compared to his father for his style and appearance, and his Instagram post reflected a personal loss felt by family and friends.

The police statement that there were no suspicious circumstances gave no further detail about the cause of death. Representatives for Hatton and officials in the sport did not immediately release additional information. The boxing community, including former opponents, promoters and fans, began sharing tributes on social media in the hours after news of his death was reported.

Hatton rose from a successful amateur background to become a national and international star, capturing the imagination of many British boxing fans during the early 2000s. His achievements in two weight divisions and high-profile bouts helped elevate his profile beyond the sport, and he remained a prominent figure in boxing circles after his retirement from active competition.

Further details, including arrangements and any statements from promoters or governing bodies, were expected to be released by Hatton’s family and representatives in the coming days.