On Sunday, the boxing world was shaken by the news that 46-year-old British champion Ricky Hatton was found dead in his home. According to police, there were no signs of foul play. The loss shocked not only the sports community but also millions of fans around the world.
Condolences poured in from some of the biggest names in sports. Tyson Fury emphasized that “there will never be another like Ricky,” Anthony Joshua called him “a true British hero,” while Wayne Rooney remembered him as “a legend, a warrior, and a great man.” Manny Pacquiao, who once faced Hatton in the ring, said that he was not only a great fighter but also a brave and kind person.
During his professional career, Ricky Hatton won 45 fights, 32 of them by knockout, and suffered just 3 defeats. His biggest triumph came in 2005, when after a spectacular victory over Kostya Tszyu, he became the IBF and The Ring world champion, later adding the WBA welterweight title to his collection.
After retiring, Hatton struggled with personal challenges – battling depression, alcohol and drug addiction, and significant weight gain. However, he eventually managed to recover, overcome depression, and find a new purpose in training young fighters, including Tommy Fury.
In 2022, Hatton made a surprise return to the ring in an exhibition bout against Marco Antonio Barrera. Ahead of the fight, he lost more than 25 kilograms and proved he could still showcase an impressive level of fitness.
Ricky Hatton was loved for his warrior spirit, humility, and closeness to the fans. His passing is a huge loss to the sporting world.
