The British former world champion Ricky “The Hitman” Hatton has died unexpectedly – the police have not confirmed any suspicious circumstances.
The boxing world is in shock: former world champion Ricky Hatton has died at the age of just 46. Greater Manchester Police confirmed that his body was found in his home. There are no indications that he was not at fault.
Hatton, born in Stockport in 1978 and known by the nickname “The Hitman”, was one of Britain’s most popular boxers. He drew crowds to arenas around the world with his aggressive forward drive, cracking body punches and fan-friendly manner.
His big breakthrough came in 2005, when he defeated Kostya Tszyu in an epic fight to win the IBF light welterweight title. He later unified other belts and moved up to welterweight, where he snatched the WBA title from Luis Collazo.
His mega-fights against the pound-for-pound stars Floyd Mayweather Jr. (2007) and Manny Pacquiao (2009) remain unforgettable. Even though he lost both duels, Hatton cemented his status as one of the most exciting fighters of his time.
He retired with a career record of 45 wins and 3 defeats – but his popularity and charisma made him an icon of British boxing far beyond the ring.