LAGOS SEPTEMBER 15TH (NEWSRANGERS)-Former world champion boxer Ricky Hatton has died at the age of 46, just weeks after announcing a comeback to the sport.
According to the Daily Mail, the Manchester native was found dead at his home in Greater Manchester on Sunday, September 14, with a police cordon currently in place around the property.
Authorities have confirmed that his death is not being treated as suspicious.
A statement from police revealed that officers were called to Bowlacre Road, Hyde, Tameside, at 6:45 am on Sunday, where they discovered the body of the 46-year-old.
At this time, no suspicious circumstances are believed to be involved.
Concerns had been raised by Hatton’s friends the night before, as he failed to attend an event for one of his boxers, which led them to worry about his well-being
After his retirement, Hatton shifted to coaching and had plans for a fight in Dubai this December as part of his return to the ring.
Hatton had previously spoken openly about his struggles with mental health and addiction.
However, his close friend, boxing commentator Steve Bunce, shared that Hatton had been in a positive place, having confronted and overcome his past challenges.
Hatton, who was a passionate Manchester City fan, had plans to attend the derby against Manchester United later on Sunday, September, where he had a table reserved in the hospitality section.
Nicknamed “The Hitman,” Hatton was a fierce and brave competitor, holding multiple world and UK titles from 1997 to 2012.
Throughout his 15-year career, he won 45 out of 48 professional fights, with notable victories over the likes of Kostya Tszyu and Jose Luis Castillo.
However, he also faced crushing defeats to Floyd Mayweather and Manny Pacquiao.
Hatton’s son, Campbell, who retired from boxing at the age of 24, has since moved on to a new career as a solar panel installer. Hatton also leaves behind two daughters, Millie and Fearne.
Just two days before his death, Hatton shared a video of himself training with a punching bag as he prepared for his comeback bout.
The fight, scheduled for December 2 against Eisa Al Dah in Dubai, was meant to mark his return to boxing.
Hall of Fame Boxing promoter Frank Warren mourned Hatton in an emotional tribute:
“I am extremely saddened to learn of the passing of British boxing legend Ricky Hatton. A superbly talented fighter who inspired a generation of young boxers and fans in a way very few had done before due to both his personality and the entertainment he provided in the ring.
“From making his debut at Widnes in 1997 to then go on to win one of the most historic fights in British boxing history against Kostya Tszyu in Manchester, Ricky will rightly go down as one of the modern greats of this sport. My deepest condolences go out to his family at this awful time.
K Tuko
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