The boxing world lost one of its most beloved figures on Saturday with the death of Ricky “The Hitman” Hatton. According to marca, the former two-weight world champion was found dead at his home in Gee Cross, Hyde, Greater Manchester. He was 46. The timing has shaken fans even more. Only months ago, Hatton announced plans for a comeback fight in Dubai set for December.
His return was expected to be a celebration, a chance to see one of Britain’s most popular fighters back in the spotlight. That bout will now never happen.
Also read: Manchester City vs Manchester United: Confirmed lineups, AI predictions, live streaming details and more
Cause of death
Police confirmed they were called to the property at 6:45 am and discovered Hatton’s body. Greater Manchester Police said there are “not currently believed to be any suspicious circumstances” surrounding his death, reports Marca.
Also read: Burnley vs Liverpool: Why is Alexander Isak not part of the Reds starting lineup? All you need to know
Rise of a champion
Hatton was Stockport-born and Manchester-bred, and for years he was more than just a boxer. He was a household name. Titles came his way – multiple world championships – and he stood toe to toe with the biggest names of his era. But what set him apart was his everyman charm. He wore his Manchester City loyalty on his sleeve and fought with a style that kept fans on their feet. Relentless, attacking, always pushing forward. That’s what people loved. In 2015 he picked up Fighter of the Year, another line on a career full of accolades.
What fans talk about just as much as the wins are the nights that followed him to Las Vegas. Tens of thousands of Brits made the trip, draping the Strip in blue and white. Those fight weeks felt less like boxing events and more like football away days. Few fighters in modern times managed to draw that kind of devotion.
Battles outside the ring
Hatton’s story was layered with triumph and pain. He spoke openly about his struggles with mental health, alcohol, drugs, and fractured family ties. He survived suicide attempts and later sought treatment, speaking publicly about his journey and reconciling with loved ones. That openness earned him deep respect and gave his story more weight than the belts he collected.
His final Instagram post has taken on tragic significance.
In the clip, Hatton jogged on a treadmill, smiling through heavy breaths and raising a fist. He told fans, “Another 5k… good sweat on,” before captioning it: “Evening run in the bag. Don’t your worry about that our kid. #getupthereboy #hitman #bluemoon.”
Where was Ricky Hatton found dead?
He was found at his home in Gee Cross, Hyde, Greater Manchester.
Is Ricky Hatton’s cause of death known?
No, the cause has not yet been confirmed, though police say there are no suspicious circumstances.
Did Ricky Hatton plan a boxing comeback?
Yes, he had announced a comeback fight scheduled in Dubai for December.
What titles did Ricky Hatton win?
He was a two-weight world champion and one of Britain’s most successful boxers.