Ricky Hatton, a former world champion in boxing who gained immense popularity in the sport, has passed away at the age of 46. His lifeless body was discovered at his residence in Greater Manchester, as confirmed by Britain’s Press Association on Sunday. Authorities mentioned that there were no suspicious circumstances surrounding his death, stating that the discovery was made after a citizen’s call to the police.
Mourning the loss, friends and fellow boxers paid heartfelt tributes to Hatton. Amir Khan, a former world champion, expressed his sorrow by calling Hatton not just a boxing legend but also a friend and mentor. Similarly, Tyson Fury, a former heavyweight champion, shared his disbelief on social media about Hatton’s untimely demise.
The news of Hatton’s passing emerged shortly after he had announced his comeback to the boxing ring for a professional fight in December against Eisa Al Dah in Dubai. This decision came after a prolonged hiatus following his defeat by Vyacheslav Senchenko in 2012, marking his third loss in his career.
Acknowledged for his achievements in winning world titles in light-welterweight and welterweight categories, Hatton engaged in memorable battles with renowned boxers such as Kostya Tszyu, Floyd Mayweather, and Manny Pacquiao. Pacquiao, expressing his admiration for Hatton, praised him for not only his boxing skills but also his courage and kindness outside the ring.
Hailing from humble beginnings, Hatton garnered a devoted fan base through his captivating fighting style and his ability to attract supporters from both the UK and the US. Despite his retirement, Hatton was candid about his struggles with mental health, shedding light on the challenges faced by athletes post-career.
His exceptional victory against Tszyu in 2005 propelled him to international fame, leading to significant fights in the US. Known for his resilience and determination, Hatton left a lasting impact on the boxing world, inspiring a new generation of fighters and fans.
Manchester City, the soccer club close to Hatton’s heart, paid tribute to the late boxer during a match with Manchester United, highlighting his enduring legacy in both sports. His return to boxing in 2021 was a testament to his resilience, having overcome personal battles and setbacks to pursue his passion for the sport.
The passing of Ricky Hatton has saddened the British Boxing Board of Control, acknowledging the loss of a remarkable talent. His legacy as a boxing icon and a devoted Manchester City fan will forever be cherished by fans and the sporting community alike.