Ricky Hatton DEAD: Boxing legend passes away aged 46

Boxing has lost one of its most beloved figures. 

Ricky Hatton has died at the age of 46 after being found at his home in Greater Manchester on Sunday morning.

Greater Manchester Police confirmed the discovery in a statement. 

A spokesperson said as per Reuters: “We can confirm that we have found a body at an address on Bowlacre Road in Gee Cross at 6.45am today, Sunday, September 14. The death is not being treated as suspicious.”

Hatton, affectionately known as “The Hitman,” was a national hero and a cult figure of British sport.

 He remained active in boxing until recently. 

He had been scheduled to fight Eisa Al Dah in Dubai this December. 

In November 2022 he staged an exhibition bout with Mexican great Marco Antonio Barrera at the Manchester Arena. 

It was billed as his farewell and it drew thousands of loyal fans who had followed him throughout his career.

Hatton’s story was one of grit and glory.

 He turned professional in 1997 and captured the imagination of Manchester from the start. 

His fan base grew rapidly, fuelled by his all action style and relentless pressure.

 In just his second bout he crossed the Atlantic to fight at Madison Square Garden, proof of the buzz he created in both Britain and America.

He won seven British titles before rising to world honours.

 His victory over Kostya Tszyu in 2005 at the MEN Arena in Manchester remains one of the greatest nights in British boxing. 

Tszyu quit on his stool and Hatton was crowned champion of the world.

Hatton went on to face Floyd Mayweather Jr in Las Vegas in 2007. 

It was billed as a battle of unbeaten stars. 

Ricky Hatton was fearless but Mayweather’s skill and precision ended the contest in the 10th round. 

Two years later, he took on Manny Pacquiao. 

The Filipino superstar stopped him with a crushing left hand in the second round. 

Both defeats came on the biggest stage, yet they cemented Hatton’s reputation as a fighter who would always test himself against the very best.

Hatton retired in 2012 after a brief comeback but never left the sport. 

He trained fighters, promoted events and was a constant presence in gyms and arenas.

Ricky Hatton’s death leaves British boxing in mourning.