Ricky Hatton, Former World Boxing Champion, Dies at 46

Ricky Hatton, the former two-division world champion boxer renowned across Britain and the world, has died at the age of 46. His body was found Sunday morning at his home in Hyde, Greater Manchester. Authorities have stated that his death is not being treated as suspicious.

Known affectionately as “The Hitman,” Hatton had an illustrious professional career spanning 15 years during which he won world titles in the light-welterweight and welterweight divisions, including recognition from the IBF, WBA, and IBO. With a record of 45 wins and 3 losses, Hatton’s rise to prominence included a defining victory over Kostya Tszyu in 2005. His later challenges in the ring included high-profile losses to Floyd Mayweather Jr. and Manny Pacquiao.

After retiring in 2012, Hatton had been open about his personal battles with depression, substance abuse, and mental health struggles. In recent months, he surprised many by announcing a return to boxing with a comeback fight scheduled for December in Dubai.

Tributes poured in quickly. Fellow British boxing stars, fans, and sports figures expressed deep sorrow. Amir Khan called him “a friend, a mentor, a warrior.” Tyson Fury paid homage with the message, “There will only ever be one Ricky Hatton.” The boxing community widely praised both his skill in the ring and his humility outside it.

Hatton’s life and career embodied both triumph and hardship. Beyond the glitz of world titles, many remember his fan-friendly style, his relentlessness in the ring, and the courage he showed in speaking out about personal demons.

He is survived by his children. The full scope of his legacy – as fighter, friend, mentor, and voice for mental health awareness – will live on in the memories of those he inspired.