British boxing legend Ricky Hatton has died at the age of 46.
Greater Manchester Police released a statement
on Sunday confirming that authorities found the body of a 46-year-old man in Hyde and “there are not currently believed to be any suspicious circumstances and has been referred to the coroner.” BBC initially reported Hatton’s death with numerous other outlets including Sky Sports and TMZ also confirming the news.Known as “The Hitman” in the ring, Hatton was a beloved figure in the boxing community
for his aggressive style and entertaining fights throughout his career. Hatton captured titles in two different weight classes while amassing an impressive record before retiring from the sport in 2012.
He racked up a perfect 43-0 record before tasting defeat for the first time when he suffered a knockout loss to Floyd Mayweather back in 2007. Hatton then scored two wins including a finish over Paulie Malignaggi before he fell to Manny Pacquiao in 2009.
Hatton had actually just recently announced plans to make his comeback to the ring in December in the United Arab Emirates.
Following news of Hatton’s death, tributes began pouring in including one from his former manager Frank Warren, who went onto become one of the top promoters in the sport.
“I am extremely saddened to learn of the passing of British boxing legend Ricky Hatton,” Warren wrote on Instagram. “A superbly talented fighter who inspired a generation of young boxers and fans in a way very few had done before due to both his personality and the entertainment he provided in the ring.
“From making his debut Widnes in 1997 to then go on to win one of the most historic fights in British boxing history against Kostya Tszyu in Manchester, Ricky will rightly go down as one of the modern greats of this sport. My deepest condolences go out to his family at this awful time.”
Former heavyweight boxing champion Tyson Fury also paid tribute to Hatton on social media saying “RIP to the legend Ricky Hatton, may he [rest in peace].There will only ever be one Ricky Hatton. Can’t believe this so young.’
Read more tributes to Hatton from the combat sports community below:
