Ricky Hatton family says boxer's 'heart as big as his smile'

Ricky Hatton’s family have paid tribute to the former world champion, who was found 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, adding that his kindness, humour, and loyalty touched everyone fortunate enough to know him.

“Our loss as a family is immeasurable, and words cannot truly express the agony we feel. Yet, in the midst of our grief, we have been deeply moved by the overwhelming outpouring of love and compassion. Richard’s memory will forever remain in our hearts, in the hearts of his fans, and in the sport that he cherished so dearly.”

Greater Manchester Police confirmed that there are no current suspects in Hatton’s death.

Hatton, who fought in 45 of his 48 professional bouts during a 15-year career, became a world champion at both light-welterweight and welterweight before retiring in 2012.

“Richard was so much more than a world champion. To us, he was simply ‘Richard’, our son,” the Hatton family continued, describing him as a loving father, grandfather, brother and a loyal friend to many.

“He inspired generations with his fighting spirit, humility, and passion for boxing. Beyond the titles, the memorable nights, and the roar of the crowd, Richard remained the same down-to-earth man who never forgot where he came from. It has brought us great comfort to see how many lives Richard touched and how much admiration and respect he earned.

“We kindly ask for privacy at this time as we begin to face life without him. In the days and weeks ahead, we will continue to draw strength from each other and from the knowledge that Richard’s legacy – both in boxing and as a person – will endure.”

Manchester to honour ‘much-loved’ boxer – Burnham

Hatton was one of Britain’s most popular fighters, earning a devoted following. Nicknamed ‘The Hitman’, he attracted vast crowds to his fights, with over 30,000 fans travelling to Las Vegas for his 2007 world title bout against Floyd Mayweather.

Greater Manchester mayor Andy Burnham led tributes, writing on X:
“Ricky was greatly adored by so many in Greater Manchester. He was the kind of person who would always show up for people and for so many causes. He made us smile, and he made us proud. We’ll find a way to honour him properly. Rest in peace, Champ.”

Manchester City, Hatton’s beloved football club, held a minute’s applause before Sunday’s derby against Manchester United at the Etihad Stadium. He was also honoured at the World Boxing Championships at the M&S Bank Arena in Liverpool.

Barry McGuigan, the former world champion turned promoter, told BBC Radio 5 Live that he used to go on training runs with Hatton.

“He had a huge fanbase, but he was also a warm, charismatic and likeable man outside the ring,” McGuigan said. “He loved to enjoy life, but when it came to training, he worked himself into superb condition.”