More tributes flow in after death of boxer Ricky Hatton

Big names from across the worlds of sport and entertainment have paid tribute to Ricky Hatton after the former boxer was found dead in his home at the age of 46.

Hatton’s brother Matthew, also a boxer, issued a short statement on social media, alongside a collection of photos of the two together.

He wrote: “I love you Richard. See you on the other side X.”

Oasis singer Liam Gallagher wrote on X he was “absolutely devastated” to hear of Hatton’s death, adding: “It was an absolute honour to know him and carry his belts RIP CHAMP LIVE FOREVER LG x.”

Radio presenter Adele Roberts described Hatton as an “amazing man”, while Olympian Greg Rutherford said the news was “utterly heart breaking”.

The pair competed alongside Hatton on the 16th season of Dancing On Ice.

The popular fighter was also remembered as being “one of a kind” by former footballer David Beckham, who posted photos of Hatton to his Instagram stories.

The death of Hatton is not being treated as suspicious by Greater Manchester Police.

A police spokesperson said on Sunday:

“Officers were called by a member of the public to attend Bowlacre Road, Hyde, Tameside, at 6.45am today, where they found the body of a 46-year-old man.

“There are not currently believed to be any suspicious circumstances.”

In another post, Roberts said: “Goodnight Ricky. Absolutely devastated and heartbroken by the news of Ricky’s passing. Thinking of his family, friends right now and all who knew him.

“He was such an amazing man. Someone I have admired from afar for years and couldn’t believe it when I got the chance to meet him.

“He was everything I hoped he’d be and more. So kind, funny, generous… his laughter and spirit filled the room… he had the heart of a champ and was fearless. You will be sorely missed Ricky.

“Gone way too soon. Rest in power Champ.”

Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham said Hatton’s death was “hard to take… in”.

He wrote on X: “Ricky was much loved by so many in Greater Manchester.

“He was the kind of person who would always turn up for people, supporting so many causes. He made us smile and made us proud.

“We will find a way of honouring him properly. Rest in peace, Champ.”

Elsewhere, former Dancing On Ice judge Oti Mabuse said he was the “sweetest man” and TV and radio presenter Paddy McGuinness said he was the “people’s champion”.

McGuinness learned of Hatton’s death during his BBC Radio 2 show and said:

“Apologies everyone just had to play a couple of songs back to back there.

“I’ve just learned some terrible news that a great mate of mine has passed away, Ricky Hatton.

“Sending love and thoughts with his family.”

Former Love Island star and fellow boxer Tommy Fury shared a photo of him and Hatton on Instagram and said he felt “gutted”.

“Heartbroken doesn’t even come close,” he said.

“I turned pro with you by my side Ricky and you’ll always be a massive part of my journey in boxing and in life.

“I am so shocked and gutted. Rest in peace champ.”

Frank Warren, who managed Hatton’s career from his professional debut in 1997 up to his historic world title win over Kostya Tszyu in 2005, spoke as news of the 46-year-old’s death was confirmed.

Warren wrote on X: “I am extremely saddened to learn of the passing of British boxing legend Ricky Hatton.

“A superbly talented fighter who inspired a generation of young boxers and fans in a way very few had done before due to both his personality and the entertainment he provided in the ring.

“From making his debut Widnes in 1997 to then go on to win one of the most historic fights in British boxing history against Kostya Tszyu in Manchester, Ricky will rightly go down as one of the modern greats of this sport.”

Britain’s former world heavyweight champion Tyson Fury paid tribute.

Alongside two pictures of him with Hatton, Fury wrote on Instagram: “Rip to the legend @rickyhatton may he rip. There will only ever be 1 Ricky hatton. can’t believe this so young.”

Anthony Joshua wrote: “RIP Hitman. One of the best to do it. Our British hero”, while Chris Eubank Jr added: “Rest in Peace Mr Ricky Hatton. We salute you.”

Matchroom Boxing said: “(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.”

Ex-Manchester United striker Wayne Rooney also shared an image of himself with Hatton on X, and wrote: “Devastated. A legend, a warrior, and a great person. Thoughts are with all Ricky’s family.”

Manny Pacquiao paid tribute to “a great fighter” and “a brave and kind man” following the death of his former opponent Ricky Hatton.

“We shared unforgettable moments in boxing history and I will always honor the respect and sportsmanship he showed. Ricky fought bravely, not just in the ring, but in his journey through life. He truly had a good fight, and we are all blessed to have been part of his wonderful journey.

“My prayers and deepest condolences go out to the Hatton family and all his loved ones. May the Lord give you strength and comfort in this difficult time. May he rest in peace.”

Fellow promoter Eddie Hearn also paid tribute on X, writing: “Everybody loved Ricky. May he rest in eternal peace. Our deepest condolences to (son) Campbell, (brother) Matthew and all of the Hatton family.”

Eubank Sr said in a statement: “My condolences to Mr Hatton’s family and close friends. We who are of the gladiatorial fraternity are mindful of the struggles we have to navigate by ourselves. Relief and deliverance I believe is soon to be with us. In God we pray.”

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