British boxing legend Ricky Hatton, known around the world as “The Hitman,” has died at the age of 46. The former two-weight world champion was set to return to the ring later this year in Dubai.
Greater Manchester Police confirmed Sunday that a body was found at a home in Hyde after a neighbor raised concern, though officials said his death is not being treated as suspicious. No official cause of death has been given.
Hatton’s career spanned from 1997 to 2012, during which he racked up a record of 45-3 with 43 straight wins before falling to Floyd Mayweather Jr., Manny Pacquiao, and Vyacheslav Senchenko. A beloved figure in British sports, he captured titles at both light-welterweight and welterweight, becoming one of the UK’s most celebrated fighters.
Beyond the ring, Hatton was open about his battles with depression, alcohol, and drugs, admitting in past interviews that his struggles nearly consumed him. Still, he had recently been training for a comeback fight against Eisa Al Dah, sharing workout videos on Instagram just days before his death.
Tributes poured in across the sports world. Fellow British boxers Tyson Fury and Amir Khan shared emotional posts online. “RIP to the legend Ricky Hatton, may he RIP. There will only ever be one Ricky Hatton. Can’t believe this, so young,” Fury wrote. Khan added, “Today we lost not only one of Britain’s greatest boxers, but a friend, a mentor, a warrior… Sometimes the hardest fight happens in silence, in the mind.”
Hatton was also a massive Manchester City fan and close friends with Oasis rockers Noel and Liam Gallagher. Manchester City announced they would honor him at Sunday’s derby against Manchester United.
Nicknamed “The Hitman,” Hatton will be remembered for his fearless style inside the ring, his bond with fans, and his openness about life’s toughest battles outside of it.