The family of Ricky Hatton have released a heartbreaking statement after the legendary British boxer was found dead at the age of 46.
The former two-weight world champion, who rose from Manchester to global stardom, was discovered at his home in Hyde, Greater Manchester, on Sunday morning (September 14). Police confirmed that his death is not being treated as suspicious.
News of Hatton’s passing has devastated the sporting world. Tributes poured in from across boxing and beyond, with Tyson Fury describing him as “a legend” and Amir Khan calling him “one of Britain’s greatest boxers, a friend, a mentor and a warrior.”
Hatton, a father of three, had been preparing for a comeback fight in December against Eisa Al Dah in Dubai, sharing training updates on social media in the weeks leading up to his death.
Ricky Hatton’s Family Issues Statement
Now, his family have spoken for the first time, releasing an emotional statement describing the loss as “immeasurable” while thanking fans for the outpouring of love and support.
The Hatton family’s statement, released on Monday via the Greater Manchester Police, reads in full: “It is with the heaviest of hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved son Richard.
“Richard was so much more than a world champion. To us he was simply ‘Richard’, our son. A loving father, grandfather, and brother, and a true friend to many.
“He had a heart as big as his smile, and his kindness, humour and loyalty touched everyone who was lucky enough to know him.
“To the wider world, Richard will always be remembered as one of boxing’s greatest champions — a man who gave everything inside the ring and wore his heart on his sleeve outside of it.
“He inspired generations with his fighting spirit, his humility, and his love for the sport. But beyond the titles, the nights to remember, and the roar of the crowd, he remained the same down-to-earth Richard who never forgot where he came from.
“As a family, our loss is immeasurable, and words cannot truly capture the pain we feel. Yet in the midst of our grief, we have been deeply moved by the overwhelming outpouring of love and support.
“It has been a source of great comfort to see just how many lives Richard touched, and how widely he was admired and respected.
“At this time, we kindly ask for privacy as we come to terms with life without him. In the days and weeks ahead, we will take strength from one another and from the knowledge that Richard’s legacy — both in boxing and as a man — will continue to live on.
“Richard’s memory will forever remain in our hearts, in the hearts of his fans, and in the sport he loved so dearly.
“With love and gratitude, The Hatton Family.”
Hatton’s career stretched from 1997 to 2012, during which he became a hero to British fight fans with his relentless style, loyal fanbase, and famous ring walks backed by Manchester anthems. Known as “The Hitman,” he captured world titles at both light-welterweight and welterweight, facing icons such as Floyd Mayweather Jr and Manny Pacquiao along the way.
But away from the belts and the bright lights, his family’s words highlight the man he was at home: a father, grandfather, brother, and friend who never lost touch with his roots in Stockport.
The tributes now being shared underline that Ricky Hatton’s influence stretched far beyond the ropes. His fighting spirit, humility, and loyalty made him a champion not just in sport, but in life.
Our thoughts continue to go out to Hatton’s family, friends, and fans at this time.
Featured image credit: Instagram/@rickyhitmanhatton
