The sports community is in shock after the sudden death of boxing legend Ricky Hatton, who passed away at his Manchester home at the age of 46.
Police have confirmed that his death is not being treated as suspicious.
Fans, friends, and fellow athletes have flooded social media with tributes for the Stockport-born fighter, who became a two-weight world champion and a national hero.
Tyson Fury and Amir Khan Lead Tributes
Tyson Fury, who shared a close friendship with Hatton, expressed his disbelief on Instagram: “RIP to the legend, Ricky Hatton.
There will only be one Ricky Hatton. Can’t believe this, so young.”
Fury shared a photo of the pair in the gym, highlighting their bond during challenging times in their careers and personal lives.
Amir Khan also paid tribute on X, reflecting on mental health: “Today we lost not only one of Britain’s greatest boxers, but a friend, a mentor, a warrior.
Mental health isn’t weakness. It’s part of being human. Ricky, thank you for everything.
To everyone struggling: you are not alone. Talk. Reach out.” Khan’s heartfelt message resonated widely among boxing fans and beyond.
Football Stars Remember a True Manchester Icon
Hatton’s love for Manchester City shone through as football figures shared memories.
Sky Sports pundits Micah Richards and Roy Keane spoke on air, describing the news as devastating.
Richards recalled visiting Hatton’s gym before becoming familiar with boxing and highlighted his warmth: “He was the nicest guy ever…he’d be down the pub with fans talking about football and life.”
Phil Foden, ahead of the Manchester derby, reflected: “My heart goes out to his family.
Today is about him and we’ll try our best to get the win for him.”
Manchester City also released an official statement offering condolences and confirming a minute’s appreciation at the Etihad Stadium.
Promoters and Boxing Peers Share Their Grief
Veteran promoter Frank Warren expressed his sorrow on X: “Ricky will rightly go down as one of the modern greats of this sport.
My deepest condolences to his family.” Warren later added on GB News: “He was a British sporting icon, not just a boxing icon.
What you saw was what you got with Ricky, a lovely, lovely bloke.”
Fellow boxers Anthony Fowler, Billy Joe Saunders, and Darren Till shared their grief online, praising Hatton as an inspiration to a generation of fighters and a friend to all who knew him.
Athletes Across Sports Reflect on Hatton’s Legacy
Tributes poured in beyond boxing, with world No. 5 darts player James Wade calling Hatton a “true legend” and recalling their friendship over the years.
Hatton had remained active in coaching and was preparing for a planned return to the ring in December.
Remembering the Man Behind the Gloves
Awarded an MBE in 2007 for services to sport, Hatton openly discussed his struggles with mental health and addiction, inspiring many with his honesty and resilience.
As a passionate Manchester City supporter, he was due to attend the derby against Manchester United, with plans for a corporate hospitality table.
In his honour, a minute’s silence will now be observed, turning what was set to be a celebratory day into a poignant moment for the city and sports fans nationwide.