Ricky Hatton, a renowned boxing professional, was sadly found [unresponsive] at his house.
Police announced in a statement today (Sunday, September 14) that famous former world boxing champion Hatton had passed away at the age of 46.
Greater Manchester Police were dispatched to Hatton’s home at Gree Cross, Hyde, UK, following a report from a neighbor.
According to the police, a body was discovered at the location, but the passing is not being treated as suspicious.
The unfortunate news comes after the boxer declared in July of this year that he was returning from retirement to compete in December.
This would have been his first fight in 13 years.
From 1997 until 2012, the British boxer known as ‘The Hitman’ won several championships and set records in both the light welterweight and welterweight weight classes.
Before his matches with Floyd Mayweather Jr in 2007, Manny Pacquiao, and Vyacheslav Senchenko, he had a 45-3 record, including titles and 43 consecutive victories.
Hatton had been open about his struggles with mental health and personal challenges since retiring.
Back in 2016, he told BBC Radio: “I was going off the rails with my drinking, which led to [substance issues]. It was like a runaway train.”
However, he had recently been training for his big comeback to the sport he loved, with a bout against Eisa Al Dah scheduled on December 2 in Dubai.
Former boxer Amir Khan was among the first to pay tribute to him.
“Today we lost not only one of Britain’s greatest boxers, but a friend, a mentor, a warrior, Ricky Hatton,” he added, according to Sky News.
“As fighters, we convince ourselves we’re strong; we train, sweat, absorb hits, and get back up. But often the most difficult battles occur quietly, in the mind.”
Khan went on to say: “Mental wellness is not a weakness. It’s part of what makes us human. And we must discuss it. We must reach out. We must depend on one another.
“Thank you, Ricky, for everything. For your fights, your moments of glory, and your tenacity. Thank you for pushing us and showing us what is possible.
“To everyone reading this: if you’re in pain or struggling, you’re not alone. Talk. Reach out. Because we need more light, compassion, and understanding.”
British boxer Tyson Fury also shared a tribute, writing on Instagram that there will only ever be one Ricky Hatton.
“RIP to the icon Ricky Hatton. May he rest peacefully.
“Can’t believe this so young.”
Greater Manchester Police said that a 46-year-old male was discovered [unresponsive] on Bowlacre Road in Hyde, Tameside, around 6.45 am today. There are currently no indications of any suspicious circumstances.
His three children survive Ricky: Campbell, 24, Millie, 13, and Fearne, 12.