Shock as British Legendary boxer Ricky Hatton found dead at home

By Kazeem Ugbodaga

Former world boxing champion Ricky Hatton has died at the age of 46.

Police confirmed that his body was discovered early Sunday morning at his home in Hyde, Greater Manchester.

Authorities have said there are no suspicious circumstances surrounding his death.

Hatton, affectionately known to fans as “The Hitman” and sometimes “The Pride of Manchester,” was one of the most popular British fighters of his generation.

His career, spanning from 1997 to 2012, saw him claim world titles at light-welterweight and welterweight, with a professional record of 45 victories, 32 of them by knockout and just three defeats.

His crowning moment came in June 2005 when he stunned the boxing world by defeating the formidable Kostya Tszyu to win the IBF light-welterweight crown in front of a raucous Manchester crowd.

That victory cemented his place among Britain’s elite fighters and endeared him to fans who admired his relentless pressure style and body-punching power.

Hatton later stepped onto the global stage against two of the sport’s all-time greats, Floyd Mayweather Jr. in 2007 and Manny Pacquiao in 2009.

Though he suffered defeats in both bouts, his willingness to take on the very best elevated his reputation far beyond Britain.

His fights regularly drew tens of thousands of fans, many of whom travelled abroad draped in the Union Jack, turning Las Vegas and other venues into extensions of Manchester on fight nights.

Beyond the ring, Hatton was celebrated for his down-to-earth personality and strong bond with supporters.

He often mingled with fans in pubs, retaining the everyman charm that made him a national favourite.

However, his retirement years were marked by personal struggles. Hatton spoke openly about his battles with depression, alcoholism, and weight fluctuations, using his platform to encourage conversations about mental health in sport.

In recent months, Hatton had announced plans for a comeback fight in Dubai later this year, a move that reignited excitement among his loyal following. His sudden death has therefore come as a shock to the boxing world.

Tributes have flooded in from across the sporting landscape. Promoters, former opponents, and fellow British champions hailed him as both a warrior in the ring and a generous spirit outside it.

For many, Hatton will be remembered not only for his titles but also for his humanity, humour, and the pride he brought to British boxing.

Police confirmed they are working closely with his family as the nation mourns the loss of one of its greatest sporting sons.