Published: Saturday 14 September 2025
Former world boxing champion Ricky ‘The Hitman’ Hatton has died at the age of 46.
The Stockport-born fighter, who became one of Britain’s most beloved sportsmen, was found at his home in Gee Cross, Hyde this morning. Greater Manchester Police confirmed that officers were called at 6:45am to reports of a body being discovered.
A GMP spokesperson said:
“Officers were called by a member of the public to attend Bowlacre Road, Hyde, Tameside, at 6:45am today where they found the body of a 46-year-old man. There are not currently believed to be any suspicious circumstances.”
A police cordon was placed outside the property but has since been lifted.
Boxing Legend
Hatton was a multiple-time world champion at light-welterweight and welterweight, famed for his relentless style, body punches, and passionate fanbase that often turned Las Vegas into “Little Manchester.”
Nicknamed The Hitman, he was named Fighter of the Year in 2015 and is remembered for his famous bouts against Floyd Mayweather Jr. and Manny Pacquiao.
Just two months ago, Hatton announced plans for a comeback fight against UAE’s Eisa Al Dah, scheduled for December in Dubai.
Life Outside the Ring
Hatton had spoken openly about his struggles with mental health and addiction. He survived suicide attempts and overcame a long-standing fallout with his family after seeking help and reconciling with loved ones.
Tributes have poured in since the news broke, with fans and figures from the sporting world remembering him as both a ferocious competitor and a gentle giant outside the ring.
Promoter Sacha Lord described him on X (formerly Twitter) as “a gentle giant” and “a true Manchester icon.”
Legacy
Born in Stockport and raised in Hyde, Hatton began his professional career at 18, training at Billy “The Preacher” Graham’s gym in Moss Side. He went on to inspire a generation of fighters and fans, selling out arenas and uniting communities around his fights.
Ricky Hatton is survived by his children and family. He would have turned 47 next month.