Ricky Hatton, former world boxing champion, dies at 46
Summary
Ricky Hatton, the former IBF light-welterweight and WBA welterweight world champion from England, has died aged 46. He was found at his home in Greater Manchester; police say the death is not being treated as suspicious. Tributes poured in from the boxing world and beyond, including former champions Amir Khan, Tyson Fury and Wayne Rooney.
Hatton rose from domestic success to global fame — most notably defeating Kostya Tszyu in 2005 — and later fought the likes of Floyd Mayweather and Manny Pacquiao. He had been open about post-career struggles with depression, weight and alcohol, and had worked successfully as a trainer. Two months before his death he announced plans for a professional return to the ring in December in Dubai.
Key Points
- Hatton was found dead at his home in Greater Manchester; police say there are no suspicious circumstances.
- He won world titles at light-welterweight and welterweight and beat Kostya Tszyu in a career-defining victory in 2005.
- Hatton shared the ring with elite fighters including Floyd Mayweather and Manny Pacquiao.
- He had publicly struggled with mental health, weight fluctuations and addiction issues after initial retirement, later returning as a trainer and briefly as a fighter.
- Hatton had announced a surprise comeback fight for December in Dubai two months before his death.
- Football club Manchester City and many peers paid tribute; a minute of appreciation was planned at the club’s derby game.
Why should I read this?
Because Ricky Hatton wasn’t just another boxer — he was proper adored in Britain and had a rollercoaster life that touched on brilliant highs and honest lows. If you follow boxing, sport culture or conversations about athletes and mental health, this is one of those stories everyone’s talking about right now.
Context and relevance
Hatton’s death is significant for boxing fans and the wider sporting community. He was a major draw in the 2000s, helped revive interest in British boxing on the world stage and later became a trainer. His well-publicised battles with mental health and addiction also highlight ongoing conversations about athlete welfare after retirement. The announced comeback adds another layer, underscoring the complex pressures athletes face when returning to elite sport.
Author style
Punchy: this is a brief, no-nonsense summary of a major sporting death. Worth diving into if you want the facts, the context and what peers are saying.