Ricky ‘The Hitman’ Hatton, one of Britain’s most beloved boxing champions, has been found dead at his home in Hyde, Greater Manchester. The 46-year-old former world champion was discovered early this morning, with police confirming the death was not suspicious.
Hatton, renowned for his thrilling career in the light welterweight and welterweight divisions, had been preparing for a highly anticipated return to the ring later this year. His sudden passing has left fans and the boxing world in shock, as they mourn the loss of a fighter who captured their hearts with his relentless fighting style and endearing personality.
Struggles and Comeback Plans
The circumstances surrounding his death come just months before Hatton was set to fight again in Dubai. The planned comeback against Eisa Aldah was set for late 2025, signaling his readiness to step back into the limelight after years of focusing on his mental health and personal struggles.
Having battled with depression and alcohol abuse after his retirement 13 years ago, Hatton was open about his personal struggles, which included several attempts to take his own life. Despite these challenges, Hatton had found healing through his efforts to mend family relationships and by taking part in a charity exhibition bout with Marco Antonio Barrera three years ago.
His victory over Kostya Tszyu in 2005, a win that secured the IBF and The Ring junior welterweight title, remains one of the defining moments of his career. Two years later, he faced Floyd Mayweather in a historic bout at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas, which saw Mayweather win by TKO in the tenth round.
Hatton’s fans, many of whom admired his down-to-earth nature and unrelenting spirit in the ring, are now left to reflect on a career that had once seemed poised for further triumphs. His unexpected death has silenced one of British boxing’s loudest and most cherished voices.
