Ricky Hatton’s Family Pays Emotional Tribute After Boxing Legend Dies at 46

The boxing world has been plunged into mourning following the sudden death of Ricky Hatton, one of Britain’s most beloved champions, at the age of 46. The former world champion was found dead at his Manchester home on Sunday morning. His family, devastated by the loss, has released a heartfelt statement paying tribute to the man they called a hero, a father, and a fighter who never stopped giving.

A Devastated Family Speaks

In their statement, Hatton’s relatives described their heartbreak at losing a man who meant so much to them — and to millions of fans.

“Ricky was more than a champion in the ring; he was the heart of our family,” they said. “To us, he was a son, a brother, a father, and a friend. His laughter, his kindness, and his strength will never be forgotten. We are shattered beyond words, but we take comfort in knowing he was loved by so many.”

The family also thanked fans and fellow fighters for their outpouring of support. “The tributes mean the world to us. Ricky always said he was nothing without his fans — and now we see just how much he meant to them.”

A Career That Captured the Nation

Hatton rose from humble beginnings in Stockport to become a two-weight world champion and one of the most popular fighters Britain has ever produced. Known as “The Hitman,” his all-action, body-punching style won him legions of supporters.

His defining night came in June 2005, when he defeated Kostya Tszyu at a packed Manchester Evening News Arena to win the IBF light-welterweight title. It was a fight that turned Hatton into a household name and ignited a fan movement that would follow him across the globe.

Hatton later fought on some of the sport’s biggest stages, including blockbuster bouts in Las Vegas against Floyd Mayweather Jr. in 2007 and Manny Pacquiao in 2009. Though those nights ended in defeat, his legions of fans remained loyal, chanting “Blue Moon” and filling arenas with the sound of football songs and unshakable belief in their man.

By the time he retired, Hatton had compiled a professional record of 45 wins and just 3 losses — numbers that secured his place in British boxing history.

A Fighter Beyond the Ring

But Hatton’s story was not one of triumph alone. After retiring in 2012, he faced well-documented battles with depression, addiction, and suicidal thoughts. Far from hiding his struggles, Hatton spoke openly, using his platform to raise awareness about mental health, particularly among men.

“I went to dark places,” he once said. “If I hadn’t spoken out, I might not be here. Talking saved my life.”

Those words inspired countless others to seek help, and his courage in confronting his demons became as important to his legacy as the titles he won.

Tributes From Across the Boxing World

News of Hatton’s death has drawn tributes from across the sporting world. Fellow fighters, promoters, and fans alike have spoken of their grief at losing a man who transcended the sport.

Heavyweight champion Tyson Fury, a fellow Mancunian, wrote: “Ricky was my hero growing up. He showed us that you could come from nothing and achieve everything. He’ll always be the People’s Champion.”

Promoter Frank Warren added: “Ricky wasn’t just a fighter, he was a phenomenon. He brought joy to millions and inspired a generation.”

Outside Hatton’s gym in Hyde, flowers, boxing gloves, and handwritten notes were left by fans. One message, pinned to a pair of worn gloves, read: “Thank you, Ricky. You gave us pride, you gave us hope. You’ll never be forgotten.”

A Lasting Legacy

Hatton’s legacy lies not only in his world titles or unforgettable nights under the lights but in his enduring bond with fans and his bravery in showing vulnerability. He proved that a champion could also be human, that strength could be found in honesty, and that community mattered more than fame.

As his family prepares for his funeral, they have asked for privacy while they grieve. Yet they also know that Ricky will be mourned far beyond their circle. He belonged to Manchester, to Britain, and to boxing itself.

In the words of his family’s statement: “He was our world. And now the world mourns with us.”

Ricky Hatton was 46.