Boxing Legend Ricky Hatton, 46, Found Dead at Manchester Home

He was found at his home in Hyde, Greater Manchester, where police have put a cordon in place. Greater Manchester Police confirmed a body had been discovered at the address but said the death is not being treated as suspicious.

A GMP spokesperson said: “Officers were called at 6.45am to Bowlacre Road, Hyde, Tameside, where the body of a 46-year-old man was found. There are no suspicious circumstances. We are not confirming the identity at this stage but are working with the family to prepare a tribute.”

Hatton, one of Britain’s most popular fighters, became world champion at both light-welterweight and welterweight. Known for his aggressive, all-action style and down-to-earth personality, he built a huge fan base and fought some of the sport’s biggest names, including Kostya Tszyu, Floyd Mayweather Jr, and Manny Pacquiao.

His crowning moment came in 2005, when he stunned Tszyu in Manchester to claim the IBF light-welterweight title, before adding the WBA belt later that year. He went on to win a welterweight world title in 2006 and was named Fighter of the Year by multiple organisations.

Despite his successes, defeats to Mayweather in 2007 and Pacquiao in 2009 marked the beginning of his decline. He retired in 2012 with a record of 45 wins (32 by knockout) and 3 losses, though he later returned for exhibition bouts.

After retiring, Hatton battled mental health and addiction issues but reinvented himself as a trainer and promoter. He guided Zhanat Zhakiyanov to a world bantamweight crown in 2017 and worked in Tyson Fury’s corner for his first fight against Deontay Wilder. His son Campbell also boxed professionally before retiring earlier this year.

A lifelong Manchester City supporter, Hatton will be honoured with a minute’s applause before today’s Manchester derby at the Etihad Stadium. City described him as “one of our most loved supporters and a glittering champion”.

Tributes will also be paid at the World Boxing Championships in Liverpool, with organisers planning a traditional “10 bells” salute during Sunday’s finals.

Hatton is survived by his children Millie, Fearne, Campbell, and his granddaughter Lyla.