Shock and sadness hit British sport today. Ricky Hatton was found dead at his Manchester home, aged 46. Police say there are no suspicious circumstances. The former world champion had recently announced a December return to the ring.
Fans left flowers, gloves, and Manchester City scarves outside his house. Tributes flooded in from fighters and celebrities. “There will only ever be one Ricky Hatton,” wrote Tyson Fury. Another mourner called him “one of Britain’s greatest boxers.” Hatton won 45 of 48 fights, beating greats and thrilling crowds from Manchester to Las Vegas.
Friends said he had battled depression and addiction, yet was training hard and “in a good place.” A lifelong City fan, Hatton was due at today’s derby, where a minute’s applause honored him. He leaves a son, two daughters, and a granddaughter.
Ricky Hatton was a warrior in the ring and a generous soul outside it. What is your strongest memory of the Hitman—his greatest fight, or his bond with the fans?
