Following the death of Ricky Hatton at the weekend, his family have paid tribute.
Greater Manchester Police were called by a neighbour yesterday morning, Sunday, September 14, to Bowlacre Road in Hyde.
Officers discovered the body of 46-year-old Ricky at the property after he had failed to attend an event the night before.
Hatton, who had several nicknames, which included ‘the Hitman’, ‘the People’s Champion’, and ‘the Pride of Hyde’, was a professional boxer, promoter, and trainer who, during his career, held multiple championships in the light-welterweight divisions and one in the heavy welterweight.
Ricky Hatton MBE (@HittmanHatton) – X
The Stockport-born boxer was named fighter of the year, 2005, by ESPN, The Ring and the Boxing Writers Association of America.
His family said, ‘It has been a source of great comfort to see just how many lives Richard touched.’
“It is with the heaviest of hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved son Richard.
“Richard was so much more than a world champion. To us he was simply ‘Richard’, our son. A loving father, grandfather, and brother, and a true friend to many.
“He had a heart as big as his smile, and his kindness, humour and loyalty touched everyone who was lucky enough to know him.
“To the wider world, Richard will always be remembered as one of boxing’s greatest champions — a man who gave everything inside the ring and wore his heart on his sleeve outside of it.
“He inspired generations with his fighting spirit, his humility, and his love for the sport. But beyond the titles, the nights to remember, and the roar of the crowd, he remained the same down-to-earth Richard who never forgot where he came from.
“As a family, our loss is immeasurable, and words cannot truly capture the pain we feel. Yet in the midst of our grief, we have been deeply moved by the overwhelming outpouring of love and support.
“It has been a source of great comfort to see just how many lives Richard touched, and how widely he was admired and respected.
Photo credit: Greater Manchester Police press office
“At this time, we kindly ask for privacy as we come to terms with life without him. In the days and weeks ahead, we will take strength from one another and from the knowledge that Richard’s legacy — both in boxing and as a man — will continue to live on.
“Richard’s memory will forever remain in our hearts, in the hearts of his fans, and in the sport he loved so dearly.
“With love and gratitude,
“The Hatton Family”
Police have confirmed that there are no suspicious circumstances.