Claire Sweeney Breaks Down in Tears at Ex Ricky Hatton’s Funeral — Emotional Gift Buried With Boxing Legend

It was an emotional and heartbreaking day at Manchester Cathedral as family, friends, and fans gathered to say goodbye to British boxing icon Ricky Hatton — and among the mourners was his former partner, ITV star Claire Sweeney, who was visibly overcome with grief.

The 54-year-old actress and presenter, best known for her roles in Brookside and Coronation Street, broke down in tears as she arrived at the packed cathedral to pay her final respects to the man she once described as “the people’s champion.”

“I Needed Time to Process the Devastating News”

Ricky’s death last month sent shockwaves through both the sporting and entertainment worlds. The 46-year-old former world champion, known affectionately as “The Hitman,” had been battling health issues in recent months, though the exact cause of his death has not been publicly confirmed.

Following the news, Claire released a deeply emotional statement expressing her sorrow and admiration for her late former partner.

“I’ve needed a few days to process the devastating news about my dear friend Ricky,” she said. “My thoughts are with his family — especially his children Campbell, Millie, Fearne, and Lyla, and his granddaughter. To them, Speaky, and to all his friends who loved him so deeply and for so many years, I send you my deepest sympathy. Ricky, you were the people’s champ. We adored and cherished you. Love you always.”

A Relationship Built on Respect and Lasting Friendship

Claire and Ricky began dating several years ago and quickly became one of the most talked-about celebrity couples in the UK. Despite their split in December, the pair remained on positive terms, often sharing supportive comments on social media and appearing together at charity and sporting events.

Their close bond was evident even after their separation. Friends say Claire “never stopped caring” for the boxer, who was adored by fans for his warmth, humour, and humility.

“They had something special,” said one mourner close to the pair. “Even after they went their separate ways, Claire always spoke of Ricky with love and respect. They had a deep connection that never really went away.”

Tears and Tributes at Manchester Cathedral

As the funeral procession made its way through the city streets, crowds of fans lined the route, clapping and cheering in a final show of love for the Manchester hero. Inside the cathedral, mourners including fellow boxers, celebrities, and old friends paid tribute to Hatton’s remarkable life — from his glittering career in the ring to his open battles with mental health and his dedication to helping others.

Claire, dressed in black and wearing dark glasses, was seen clutching a small box as she arrived. Witnesses said she appeared emotional but composed as she made her way inside.

During the private service, she reportedly approached the coffin to place a small, wrapped gift alongside Ricky’s body — a final gesture that left many in tears.

“I COULDN’T LET HIM GO WITHOUT THIS — HE DESERVED TO HAVE A PIECE OF MY HEART FOREVER,” Claire was heard saying softly, according to one attendee.

Though the exact contents of the gift have not been revealed, it is understood to have held deep personal meaning for the pair.

A Legacy That Will Never Be Forgotten

Hatton’s children — Campbell, Millie, Fearne, and Lyla — were among those who delivered heartfelt tributes, speaking of their father’s humour, generosity, and the pride he took in his family. His eldest son Campbell, who has followed in his father’s footsteps as a professional boxer, fought back tears as he said, “Dad was my hero, my best mate, and my biggest inspiration. He’ll always be with me in every fight.”

The service was followed by a private burial attended only by close family and friends. Claire reportedly stayed behind after most mourners had left, standing quietly by the graveside with her head bowed, before leaving a single white rose on the coffin.

A Final Farewell and a Birthday Tribute

Just days before the funeral, Claire had shared a touching post on social media to mark what would have been Ricky’s 47th birthday. Posting a smiling photo of the boxing legend, she simply wrote, “Happy birthday ❤️🙏.”

Fans flooded her page with messages of support and condolences, with many praising her for her strength and dignity in the face of loss.

As one follower wrote: “You can tell she really loved him. You never stop caring about someone who made that kind of impact on your life.”

Ricky Hatton’s funeral was not just a farewell to one of Britain’s greatest boxers — it was a celebration of a man who inspired millions, loved fiercely, and lived with the same passion outside the ring as he did inside it.

And for Claire Sweeney, the tears, the tributes, and that final, mysterious gift were her last way of saying goodbye to the man who once held her heart.