‘A heart as big as his smile’ – Hatton’s family pay tribute

Ricky Hatton’s family has paid tribute to the former world champion, who was found dead at the age of 46 at his home in Manchester on Sunday.

“He had a heart as big as his smile, and his kindness, humour and loyalty touched everyone who was lucky enough to know him,” the Hatton family said.

“As a family, our loss is immeasurable, and words cannot truly capture the pain we feel. Yet in the midst of our grief, we have been deeply moved by the overwhelming outpouring of love and support.

“Richard’s memory will forever remain in our hearts, in the hearts of his fans, and in the sport he loved so dearly.”

Hatton, who won 45 of his 48 professional bouts during his 15-year career, was world champion at light-welterweight and welterweight, and last fought professionally in 2012.

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

“He inspired generations with his fighting spirit, his humility, and his love for the sport. But beyond the titles, the nights to remember, and the roar of the crowd, he remained the same down-to-earth Richard who never forgot where he came from.

“It has been a source of great comfort to see just how many lives Richard touched, and how widely he was admired and respected.

Nicknamed ‘the Hitman’, his all-action style saw Hatton became one of Britain’s most popular fighters, with a loyal following.

Those fans travelled in huge numbers to watch Hatton fight, with more than 30,000 heading to Las Vegas for his title bout with Floyd Mayweather in 2007.

Greater Manchester mayor Andy Burnham praised Hatton, who was a hugely popular figure in his home city.

“Ricky was much loved by so many in Greater Manchester. He was the kind of person who would always turn up for people, supporting so many causes,” Burnham posted on X.

“He made us smile and made us proud. We will find a way of honouring him properly. Rest in peace, Champ.”

Manchester City – the club Hatton proudly supported – paid tribute with a minute’s appreciation before Sunday’s meeting with Manchester United at Etihad Stadium.

A 10-bell salute to Hatton was also made at the World Boxing Championships at the M&S Bank Arena in Liverpool.

Speaking to BBC Radio Essex, Barry Hearn, who founded Matchroom promotions, said: “It’s just a sadness for the whole of the boxing world because he was an icon of the sport.”