What killed Ricky Hatton? What to know as ex-world boxing champion dies at 46
What killed Ricky Hatton? What to kno as ex-boxing world champion dies at 46
Ricky “The Hitman” Hatton, one of Britain’s most beloved boxers and a dominant force in the ring during the 2000s, has passed away at the age of 46.
Tributes poured in across the boxing world on Sunday, with the World Boxing Association calling him “a true champion, an indomitable spirit, and a legend whose memory will live forever.” His former promoter Frank Warren also remembered him as a modern great who left an indelible mark on the sport.
Authorities in Greater Manchester confirmed that a man in his mid-forties was found dead at a residence in Hyde, England. Police said there were no immediate signs of foul play and are working with the family to provide further details.
From Manchester Prospect to Global Star
Hatton began boxing as a teenager and turned professional in 1997 with a victory over Colin McAuley. He quickly built momentum, winning 21 consecutive fights before capturing the British light-welterweight crown against Jon Thaxton in 2000. The Manchester native became a hero in his hometown, regularly selling out the MEN Arena with his all-action style and relentless pressure fighting.
His defining moment came in June 2005, when he stunned the boxing world by defeating Hall of Famer Kostya Tszyu to claim the IBF title. Hatton often described that night in Manchester as the pinnacle of his career.
The victory propelled him onto the international stage. Wins over Luis Collazo and Jose Luis Castillo solidified his reputation, while his loyal fan base famously traveled in droves to support him abroad. In December 2007, Hatton faced Floyd Mayweather Jr. in Las Vegas in one of the era’s most anticipated showdowns, suffering his first professional defeat. Two years later, he met Manny Pacquiao but was stopped in a devastating second-round knockout.
A Fighter Inside and Outside the Ring
Beyond the ring, Hatton was admired for his down-to-earth character and honesty about his personal battles. Following retirement, he publicly discussed struggles with depression, weight gain, and substance abuse, earning respect for his openness.
Despite setbacks, Hatton found a second act as a trainer. In 2017, he guided Zhanat Zhakiyanov to a bantamweight world title, cementing his place in the sport as a mentor as well as a fighter.
This summer, Hatton had announced plans to return to the ring in December for an exhibition bout in Dubai, showing his enduring love for boxing.
Tributes to a Legend
Boxing greats and fans alike expressed their shock and sadness at the news of his passing. Heavyweight champion Tyson Fury posted on Instagram: “There will only ever be one Ricky Hatton. Can’t believe this. Gone too young.”
Today we lost not only one of Britain’s greatest boxers, but a friend, a mentor, a warrior, Ricky Hatton.
As fighters, we tell ourselves we’re strong — we train, we sweat, we take hits, we get up. But sometimes the hardest fight happens in silence, in the mind. Mental health… pic.twitter.com/JwSaYJe6XE
— Amir Khan (@amirkingkhan) September 14, 2025
Manchester City are devastated to learn Ricky Hatton has passed away, aged 46.
Ricky was one of City’s most loved and revered supporters, who will always be remembered for a glittering boxing career that saw him win world titles at welterweight and light-welterweight.
Everyone… pic.twitter.com/6PcjliPBde
— Manchester City (@ManCity) September 14, 2025
I am deeply saddened to hear about the passing of Ricky Hatton. He was not only a great fighter inside the ring but also a brave and kind man in life. We shared unforgettable moments in boxing history and I will always honor the respect and sportsmanship he showed. Ricky fought…
— Manny Pacquiao (@MannyPacquiao) September 14, 2025
British boxing icon Ricky Hatton has died at the age of 46.
The multi-time world champion leaves behind a fantastic legacy.
Rest in peace. pic.twitter.com/O0qz2uw4Ia
— talkSPORT (@talkSPORT) September 14, 2025
Rest in Peace Ricky Hatton! 🙏 pic.twitter.com/bliQ6txY3Z
— Conor McGregor (@TheNotoriousMMA) September 14, 2025
We are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of British boxing royalty Ricky Hatton.
A relentless pressure fighter and spiteful body puncher in the ring, Hatton was adored for his charisma and down-to-earth character outside of it.
He will be sorely missed.
Our thoughts are… pic.twitter.com/1VlSPqw3Ho
— Boxing News (@BoxingNewsED) September 14, 2025
Well I am absolutely gutted to see the news that @HitmanHatton has sadly passed away at the young age of 46.
I’ve spoke to Ricky a few times since the loss of my Dad and about my own mental health and he was always very supportive and a nice person.
Rest In Peace #rickyhatton ❤️ pic.twitter.com/peWKH08aer— Daniel Kerley (@danielsjourney1) September 14, 2025
For many, Hatton wasn’t just a champion inside the ropes but a symbol of grit, resilience, and passion. His journey from local Manchester lad to global boxing icon will remain one of the sport’s most compelling stories.