By Peter Omopo | September 14, 2025
Former world boxing champion Ricky Hatton has died at the age of 46, the UK’s Press Association confirmed on Sunday.
Hatton was found dead at his home in Hyde, northwest England. Police said they were not treating the death as suspicious.
A spokesman for Greater Manchester Police said:
“Officers were called by a member of the public to attend Bowlacre Road, Hyde, Tameside, at 6:45 am (0545 GMT) today (Sunday), where they found the body of a 46-year-old man. There are not currently believed to be any suspicious circumstances.”
Hatton, nicknamed “The Hitman”, rose to fame in the 2000s, winning world titles at light-welterweight and welterweight. His relentless, aggressive style and working-class appeal made him one of Britain’s most beloved boxers.
Among his most famous bouts were victories over Kostya Tszyu and fights against global stars Floyd Mayweather Jr. and Manny Pacquiao.
Away from the ring, Hatton was candid about his struggles with mental health, particularly after retiring from boxing. In July, he announced plans for a surprise comeback fight against Eisa Al Dah in Dubai, scheduled for December.
Tributes have poured in from across the boxing world.
Heavyweight champion Tyson Fury 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 hailed him on X as a “mentor, warrior, and one of Britain’s greatest boxers,” adding:
“As fighters, we tell ourselves we’re strong… But sometimes the hardest fight happens in silence, in the mind. Mental health isn’t weakness—it’s part of being human. Ricky, thank you for everything.”
Promoter Matchroom Boxing also issued a statement:
“We are 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 passing marks a huge loss for British sport, where he will be remembered not just for his achievements in the ring but also for his honesty and resilience outside it.
