The worlds of boxing and sport are in mourning following the passing of former world champion Ricky Hatton, who has died at the age of 46.
The retired boxer was found dead at his home in Hyde, Greater Manchester, on Sunday morning. Police confirmed that his death is not being treated as suspicious.
A spokesperson for Greater Manchester Police said: “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.”
Celebrated fighter
Hatton, one of Britain’s most celebrated fighters, enjoyed a decorated career spanning 15 years from 1997 to 2012.
The Man City fan held multiple world titles across the light-welterweight and welterweight divisions and became a household name with his all-action style and passionate fanbase.
His career reached its pinnacle in 2005 when he defeated Kostya Tszyu to unify the IBF, Ring and lineal light-welterweight titles, before adding the WBA belt later that year against Carlos Maussa.
Hatton also claimed the WBA welterweight crown in 2006 with victory over Luis Collazo.
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High-profile bouts
Among his most high-profile bouts were clashes with boxing greats Floyd Mayweather Jr. in 2007 and Manny Pacquiao in 2009, both resulting in defeats that nonetheless cemented his status on the world stage.
Hatton retired in 2011 before making a brief comeback in 2012, when he was beaten by Vyacheslav Senchenko.
He had been planning another return to the ring later this year.
‘Absolutely devastated’
Sky Sports pundit Barry McGuigan said: “I’m absolutely devastated to hear the news of the passing of Ricky Hatton.
“He was a man of the people and a spectacular fighter. A great man inside the ring and a wonderful man outside of it.
“RIP Ricky, my thoughts and prayers are with his family at this very difficult time.”
Boxing promoter Frank Warren said: “I am extremely saddened to learn of the passing of British boxing legend Ricky Hatton.
Inspired a generation
“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 [in] 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.
“My deepest condolences go out to his family at this awful time.”
Tyson Fury said: “Rip to the legend @rickyhatton may he rip 🙏 There will only ever be 1 Ricky hatton 🎶. can’t believe this so young.❤️💙”
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