Former world champion Ricky Hatton, one of Britain’s most beloved fighters, has died at the age of 46.
Hatton was discovered at his home in Hyde, northwest England, on Sunday morning. Greater Manchester Police confirmed the death, stressing that there were no suspicious circumstances.
“Officers were called by a member of the public to attend Bowlacre Road, Hyde, Tameside, at 6:45 am (0545 GMT) today, where they found the body of a 46-year-old man. There are not currently believed to be any suspicious circumstances,” a police spokesman said.
Hatton, nicknamed “The Hitman,” rose to stardom with his relentless style, winning world titles at both light-welterweight and welterweight. His biggest nights in the ring came against elite names such as Kostya Tszyu, Floyd Mayweather, and Manny Pacquiao.
Despite his success, Hatton often spoke openly about the battles he faced outside the ropes, especially with mental health after retirement. Just two months ago, he had announced plans for a comeback fight against Eisa Al Dah in Dubai this December.
Tributes have poured in from across the boxing world.
Tyson Fury, Britain’s former heavyweight champion, wrote on Instagram, “RIP to the legend Ricky Hatton, may he rip. There will only ever be 1 Ricky Hatton. Can’t believe this so young.”
Former world champion Amir Khan called him a “mentor, warrior, and one of Britain’s greatest boxers.” In a heartfelt message on X, Khan added, “As fighters, we tell ourselves we’re strong—we train, we sweat, we take hits, we get up. But sometimes the hardest fight happens in silence, in the mind. Mental health isn’t weakness. It’s part of being human. And we must talk about it. Ricky, thank you for everything. For your fights, your moments of glory, your grit. Thank you for pushing us, showing us what’s possible.”
Matchroom Boxing also shared condolences, saying, “Saddened to hear the news of Ricky Hatton’s passing. Our thoughts and condolences are with Ricky’s friends and family at this tragic time. There’s only one Ricky Hatton.”
Hatton’s death has left the boxing community reeling, marking a sudden and painful loss of a fighter remembered as both a warrior in the ring and a candid voice about struggles outside it.
