Ricky Hatton family says boxer's 'heart as big as his smile'
Ricky Hatton's family has paid tribute to the former world champion, who was discovered dead at his home in Manchester on Sunday at the age of 46. He had a heart as big as his smile,
the Hatton family said, and his kindness, humour, and loyalty touched anyone who was fortunate enough to know him.
Richard's memory will always be in our hearts, in the hearts of his followers, and in a sport that he adored so dearly.Our loss as a family is immeasurable, and words cannot adequately express the agony we feel. Yet, in the midst of our sadness, we have been greatly moved by the overwhelming outpouring of love and compassion.
There are no current suspectsin Hatton's death, according to a Greater Manchester Police spokesperson.
Hatton, who competed in 45 of his 48 professional bouts during his 15-year career, was the world champion in light-welterweight and welter weight, and he retired in 2012.
He inspired generations of combat spirit, humility, and his passion for the sport. But Richard remained the same down-to-earth Richard who never forgot where he came from, beyond the titles, the nights to recall, and the crowd's roar.Richard was so much more than a world champion. He was just 'Richard,' our son, to us. The Hatton family described a loving father, grandfather, and brother as well as a great friend to many.
We kindly request for anonymity at this time as we begin to deal with life without him. We will continue to learn in the days and weeks ahead from one another and the knowledge that Richard's legacy, both in boxing and as a man, will continue.It has been a source of tremendous joy to see how many lives Richard touched and how much he admired and respected him.
Manchester to honour 'much loved' boxer properly - Burnham
Hatton became one of Britain's most popular fighters with a loyal following, with 'the Hitman'' nicknamed 'The Hitman. Fans came out in droves to watch Hatton fight in Las Vegas, with more than 30,000 expected to watch the championship match with Floyd Mayweather in 2007. Hatton, who was a hugely popular figure in his hometown, was lauded by Greater Manchester mayor Andy Burnham.
He was the kind of person who would always turn up for people, and so many causes.Ricky was greatly adored by so many in Greater Manchester. Burnham wrote on X,
Manchester City, a club Hatton proudly supported, paid tribute to a minute's appreciation before Sunday's match against Manchester United at Etihad Stadium. Hatton was also saluted at the World Boxing Championships at the M&S Bank Arena in Liverpool. Barry McGuigan, the former world champion who became a mentor and promoter after retiring in 1989, told BBC Radio 5 Live that he used to go on training runs with Hatton.He made us smile and made us proud. We'll find a way to respect him properly. Rest in peace, Champ.
He [Hatton] had a large fanbase, but he had he's also had captivated and likable personalities outside of the ring,
Were you one of the Hatton fans who attended the Hattons fight in Las Vegas? Use the form below to get in touch and tell us about your experience.He loved to enjoy himself, but he'll train himself to be in excellent shape.
