Ricky Hatton’s son has paid tribute to his dad after the tragic news of his death over the weekend. The former professional boxer was found dead at his home in Greater Manchester on Sunday 14 September at the age of 46. Police confirmed his death is not being treated as suspicious.
The Stockport-born fighter, who would have turned 47 in October, had spoken openly about his struggles with mental health and drug addiction throughout his career, inspiring many others to speak out and seek help.
During his boxing career, the Manchester City fan held multiple world championships, as well as UK titles, and was named Fighter of the Year in 2015.
Tributes have flooded in from across the globe, with family members sharing their heartbreak and memories of Ricky. Campbell posted to Instagram last night, with pictures of him and his dad.
The caption of the post read: “Heartbroken isn’t the word. Everybody has always said I was your double and 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 anymore. Love you dad.” Ricky is survived by three children: Campbell 24, Millie 13, and Fearne 12.
Ricky was due to return to the boxing ring in December. He was scheduled to fight in the UAE’s Eisa Al Dah in a middleweight bout on December 2 in Dubai. The fight was announced during a show promoted by Al Dah in Dubai on Sunday, with Ricky confirming his return via livestream.
Across his fifteen year career, Ricky won 45 of his 48 professional fights. He last fought professionally in 2012, suffering defeat by Ukraine’s Vyacheslav Senchenko.
After the moving post uploaded by son Campbell, a number of supportive comments were left. Claire Sweeney who is the former partner of the sport icon wrote “sending you love”, alongside red heart emojis.
Will Mellor commented: “Sending all my love mate! I’m sure he was proud of you every second since you were born! He lives in you now! Take care.”
Eddie Hearn responded: “So sorry for your loss mate. Your dad is a special man. Stay strong” and Terry Stone added “Here for you mate we are all thinking about you.”
Claire Sweeney, who found fame through Scouse soap Brookside, shared a heartfelt message to her own social media platform yesterday.
She posted: “I’ve needed a few days to process the devastating news about my dear friend Ricky. My thoughts are with his family especially his children Campbell, Millie Fearne and Lyla, his granddaughter.”
She added: “To them, Speaky and to all his friends who loved him so deeply and for so many years I send you my deepest sympathy. Ricky, you were the people’s champ. We adored and cherished you. Love you always.”