The world of boxing is still reeling from the shocking loss of Ricky Hatton, who passed away at just 46 years old.
Known fondly as “The Hitman,” Hatton was discovered at his home in Hyde, Greater Manchester, over the weekend.
Authorities confirmed that his death is not being treated as suspicious.
For his family, friends, and countless fans, the loss has left a gaping hole.
While tributes have poured in from across the sporting world, some of the most heartbreaking words have come from those closest to him.
Campbell Hatton Breaks His Silence
On Tuesday evening, Hatton’s son Campbell took to Instagram to share an emotional message about his father.
The young boxer wrote that “heartbroken isn’t the word” to describe how he feels, adding that people often said he was his father’s double—and that it had never felt truer than now.
He reminisced about the laughs and special moments they shared, admitting he still can’t believe they won’t have any more.
“Love you dad,” Campbell concluded in a tribute that resonated with both fans and fighters alike.
A Promising Career of His Own
Like his father, Campbell followed the path of boxing.
Though he retired just two months ago after the loss of a close friend left him struggling emotionally, he had already made his mark.
His career highlights included appearing on the undercard of Anthony Joshua’s bout with Oleksandr Usyk in 2021 and achieving 14 professional wins before two final defeats.
He is one of three children Ricky shared with his former partner, Jennifer Dooley, alongside his sisters Millie and Fearne.
Ricky Hatton’s Legacy in the Ring
Ricky Hatton himself was no stranger to glory.
Between 1997 and 2012, he built a reputation as one of Britain’s most fearless and entertaining fighters.
He captured multiple world and UK titles, with one of his greatest moments coming when he upset Russia’s Kostya Tszyu in 2005, turning him from underdog into superstar overnight.
Though he had shifted focus in recent years to coaching, Hatton had recently announced plans to step back into the ring for a December fight in Dubai.
Concerns Before His Passing
Close friends first grew worried when Hatton missed both a Friday gym session and a Saturday fight in Bolton that featured one of his fighters.
Sadly, those concerns were soon confirmed.
While Hatton had long been open about his struggles with addiction and mental health, many close to him believed he had turned a corner.
Boxing pundit Steve Bunce said Hatton had been “in a really good place” and had been actively working through his challenges.
Tributes From Family
For his parents, Carol and Ray, Ricky wasn’t just a world champion—he was their son.
In their statement, they described him as a loving father, grandfather, brother, and friend.
“He had a heart as big as his smile,” they said, adding that the wave of love and respect shown since his passing has brought the family comfort in their grief.
The Boxing World Reacts
Fellow champions Tyson Fury and Amir Khan also paid their respects.
Fury called Hatton “a legend” and said there would only ever be one Ricky Hatton.
Khan remembered him not just as a fighter but as a mentor and warrior, using his tribute to emphasize the importance of mental health awareness.
Manchester City Pays Respect
Beyond boxing, Ricky’s other great love—Manchester City—honored him with a moment of silence before their derby match against Manchester United.
Phil Foden dedicated his goal to Hatton and his family, while manager Pep Guardiola admitted it was one of the most emotional tributes he had witnessed during his decade at the club.
A Champion Remembered
Ricky Hatton’s passing has left an immeasurable sense of loss, but his impact—both in and out of the ring—remains undeniable.
He was a fighter, a father, and a man who wore his heart on his sleeve.
His legacy, carried on by his children and remembered by fans worldwide, ensures that “The Hitman” will never be forgotten.