Shock and sadness swept through the sports and entertainment world as news emerged of the passing of former world boxing champion Ricky Hatton at the age of 46.
Hatton, a beloved figure both inside and outside the ring, was found at his home in Greater Manchester earlier today.
Police have confirmed that his death is not being treated as suspicious.
Tributes from Dancing On Ice Co-Stars
Ricky’s time on Dancing On Ice brought him close to many fellow celebrities, who were quick to share heartfelt tributes.
Olympian Greg Rutherford, who competed alongside Ricky on the 2024 series, shared a smiling photo of the two on the rink.
He wrote about the first time he met Hatton, recalling how kind and engaged the boxing star had been, even discussing mental health struggles together.
“A great human first and one of the greatest boxers we’ve seen. He’s going to be so missed. Love to his family,” Greg added.
Fellow DOI star Amber Davies expressed her sorrow on Instagram, calling Ricky “one of the sweetest” during their time together.
Oti Mabuse, a judge on the show during Hatton’s stint, remembered him as having “the kindest heart and sweetest man,” describing him as “like a father to many celebs on DOI.”
Sports Legends Pay Their Respects
The tributes extended far beyond the skating rink. David Beckham posted a throwback photo of Hatton in his boxing prime, writing, “Ricky was one of a kind… just heartbreaking… Ricky was special in many ways, loved by his fans.”
Beckham also shared a quote from Hatton himself: “As long as I’ve got the love of the fans, that means everything to me.”
Piers Morgan also paid tribute on X, describing the news as “incredibly sad.”
Meanwhile, Paddy McGuinness broke the news during his BBC Radio 2 show, visibly emotional, calling Hatton a “great mate” and dedicating a song in his honor.
He shared memories from their time together at Soccer Aid in 2010 alongside Robbie Williams and Jonathan Wilkes, remembering Hatton as a “World Champion. People’s Champion.”
Tributes from the Boxing Community
Boxer Tommy Fury shared his own emotional tribute, posting photos with Hatton on Instagram and describing the loss as “heartbreaking.”
He credited Ricky for being a major influence in his boxing journey.
Tommy’s girlfriend, Molly-Mae Hague, also expressed her condolences, simply writing, “Rest in peace Ricky.”
Remembering a Champion’s Legacy
Ricky Hatton’s death comes just weeks after he announced a dramatic return to the ring, with a fight scheduled for December.
Friends had grown concerned when he missed an event featuring one of his boxers the previous night.
After retiring, Hatton had transitioned to coaching, but his love for the sport remained evident.
Hatton, awarded an MBE for services to sport in 2007, had been open about his struggles with mental health and past drug addiction, using his platform to raise awareness and help others facing similar challenges.
His passing leaves a void not only in the boxing world but also among the many lives he touched through kindness, mentorship, and camaraderie.