The family of Ricky Hatton, the world champion boxer, has released a heartfelt statement following his tragic death at the age of 46. The father-of-three was discovered dead at his Manchester home on Sunday, September 14.
His family expressed their “immeasurable” grief but also shared their gratitude for the overwhelming love and support they’ve received. Greater Manchester Police confirmed on Sunday that the 46-year-old had been found deceased at his Hyde residence, with no suspicious circumstances surrounding his death, reports Wales Online.
During the summer, Ricky Hatton announced he was coming out of retirement. He declared his return to the ring and was set to face Eisa Al Dah in Dubai on December 2. Tributes have poured in from across the sporting world and beyond for Hatton, who was a former world welterweight champion. On Monday, September 15, his family issued a statement through Greater Manchester Police.
They said: “It is with the heaviest of hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved son Richard. Richard was so much more than a world champion. To us he was simply ‘Richard’, our son. A loving father, grandfather, and brother, and a true friend to many. He had a heart as big as his smile, and his kindness, humour and loyalty touched everyone who was lucky enough to know him.
“To the wider world, Richard will always be remembered as one of boxing’s greatest champions – a man who gave everything inside the ring and wore his heart on his sleeve outside of it. He inspired generations with his fighting spirit, his humility, and his love for the sport.
“But beyond the titles, the nights to remember, and the roar of the crowd, he remained the same down-to-earth Richard who never forgot where he came from. As a family, our loss is immeasurable, and words cannot truly capture the pain we feel. Yet in the midst of our grief, we have been deeply moved by the overwhelming outpouring of love and support.
“It has been a source of great comfort to see just how many lives Richard touched, and how widely he was admired and respected. At this time, we kindly ask for privacy as we come to terms with life without him.
“In the days and weeks ahead, we will take strength from one another and from the knowledge that Richard’s legacy – both in boxing and as a man – will continue to live on. Richard’s memory will forever remain in our hearts, in the hearts of his fans, and in the sport he loved so dearly.”
Manchester bosses have revealed the city is dedicated to appropriately celebrating Ricky Hatton, according to Mayor Andy Burnham. On Sunday, Greater Manchester Police confirmed that Hatton, 46, was discovered dead at his home in Hyde. Officers stated that no suspicious circumstances were involved in his death.
The announcement of Hatton’s passing has prompted heartfelt tributes from across the sporting world, with Burnham revealing that discussions will now take place regarding how the city can best honour his remarkable legacy. On X, he wrote that it was “hard to take in” Hatton’s death.
He said: “Ricky was much loved by so many in Greater Manchester. He was the kind of person who would always turn up for people, supporting so many causes. He made us smile and made us proud. We will find a way of honouring him properly. Rest in peace, Champ.”
Hatton reached what many regard as the height of his career on home turf, claiming victory over Kostya Tszyu for the IBF welterweight crown at the Manchester Arena in 2005. On Monday morning, floral tributes and replica shirts of Hatton’s beloved Manchester City were left outside his Hyde residence, as the local community began to come to terms with losing one of its most celebrated sporting heroes.
Fellow boxer Manny Pacquiao, who defeated Hatton in 2009, also shared his sympathies. Pacquiao wrote on Instagram: “I am deeply saddened to hear about the passing of Ricky Hatton. He was not only a great fighter inside the ring but also a brave and kind man in life.
“We shared unforgettable moments in boxing history and I will always honour the respect and sportsmanship he showed. Ricky fought bravely, not just in the ring, but in his journey through life. He truly had a good fight, and we are all blessed to have been part of his wonderful journey.”
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He added: “My prayers and deepest condolences go out to the Hatton family and all his loved ones. May the Lord give you strength and comfort in this difficult time. May he rest in peace.”
A minute’s applause was observed before Sunday’s Manchester derby at the Etihad Stadium in honour of Hatton. Speaking to Sky Sports prior to the match, City midfielder Phil Foden said: “My heart obviously goes out to his family, at this hard time.
“Obviously to hear the news just before a big game is devastating. I’m sure he would have been here today as well, supporting us. Today is for him and we’re going to try to get the win and do the best we can for him.”