Claire Sweeney has sent a message of support to Ricky Hatton’s devastated son after the boxing icon’s death aged 46. The Coronation Street star dated the boxer after their long-time friendship blossomed into romance when they both competed on Dancing On Ice.
The former couple split last year, but Claire remained close to Hatton and regularly shared messages of support on social media. The former Welterweight champion was a dad to three children and his eldest son, Campbell, has taken to Instagram to share a heartbroken tribute after the tragic loss.
The 24-year-old, who retired from boxing earlier this year, said: “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.”
Claire was one of many to offer their condolences to Campbell as she shared a series of heart emojis and the message: “Sending you love xxx.”
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.”
Hatton’s family issued a message on social media this morning, as they said: “We are all distraught at the events of recent days. To all our knowledge, despite his well-documented struggles, Richard was in a good place.
“He was excited for the future, his bag was packed ready to go to Dubai to promote a comeback fight and he was planning a celebration in Dubai of which his beloved girls Millie and Fearne were to be the centre of.
“He was excited that they would see him fight for the first time in person. He was a doting grandfather and loved spending time with Campbell and Lyla. Richard planned to spend more time in Tenerife.”
The heartfelt message recalled the days in the lead-up to Hatton’s death. The family said: “Richard has spoken to his family and his team in the days and weeks before the weekend. He had dinner with his girls on Friday night and Richard was not alone in life or the days before the weekend.
“We are all in shock at the events that unfolded over the weekend. Richard was found by his friend and long-time manager Paul Speak, who we are supporting at this time along with Richard’s parents, Ray and Carol, his children and the wider family.”