British Boxing Legend Ricky Hatton Dies at 46: Family Mourns “The Hitman”

Ricky Hatton, former world champion boxer known affectionately as “The Hitman,” has died aged 46. His body was found at his home in Hyde, Greater Manchester early on September 14, 2025. Authorities say there are no suspicious circumstances surrounding his death.

Hatton earned widespread fame in boxing for his relentless, crowd-pleasing style. He held world titles in both the light-welterweight and welterweight divisions. His most memorable victory came in 2005 when he beat Kostya Tszyu to win the IBF light-welterweight crown.

After retiring in 2012, Hatton was candid about his battles with mental health, addiction, and personal struggles. He became an advocate for wellbeing among retired boxer fighters. Despite those challenges, he had recently announced plans for a ring comeback in December 2025, heightening the shock among fans and the boxing world.

Hatton’s family released a heartfelt statement expressing their “immeasurable” loss. They described him as a devoted father, grandfather, brother, and friend—beyond his status as a boxing icon. They thanked supporters for the outpouring of love, asked for privacy, and said his legacy lives on through his spirit and impact on the sport.

Tributes flooded in from across the sports world. Fellow boxers, promoters, and fans praised his courage, loyalty, and down-to-earth nature. Manchester City, the football club Hatton supported, announced a minute of silence before a major match.

Ricky Hatton leaves behind a powerful legacy—not just in his fight record, but in his openness about struggle, boxing legacy his connection to fans, and the respect he earned inside and outside the ring. His death has sparked calls for greater support for mental health and post-career welfare among athletes.