In memory of Ricky Hatton: the legendary British boxer has passed away
14 september 2025 в 23:13
46-year-old British boxing legend Ricky Hatton, known as the «Hitman», - has passed away. The former world champion, who rose to fame in the 2000s with his aggressive style and devoted fans from Manchester, was found in his home in Hyde, Greater Manchester, in September 2025.
As tributes pour in for one of Britain’s most iconic fighters, learn more about Hatton below.
Hatton became one of the most popular British boxers in the 2000s, breaking through the light welterweight division to win multiple world titles. His breakthrough came with a victory over Kostya Tszyu in 2005, when he won the IBF light welterweight title, solidifying his place as a fan favorite. Known for his relentless fighting style and devoted fans from Manchester, Hatton earned the nickname «Hitman» and quickly became one of the most popular fighters in the sport.
Hatton’s age also led him to the ring with two of the greatest boxers of all time: Floyd Mayweather Jr. and Manny Pacquiao. His clash with Mayweather in 2007, dubbed «Unbeaten», - was his first professional defeat but became one of the most watched fights of that era. Two years later, in 2009, he faced Pacquiao in Las Vegas, suffering a defeat in the second round.
Hatton was a father of three children: son Campbell and daughters Millie and Fern. His eldest son, Campbell, followed in his footsteps, starting a professional boxing career before ending it in 2025.
After retiring from boxing in 2012, Hatton was open about his struggles with depression, substance abuse, and the difficulties of adapting to life outside the ring. He admitted in interviews that he felt lost without the structure of boxing and turned to alcohol and drugs at various times. «I lost control due to drinking, which led to drugs. It was like a runaway train», - he said on BBC in 2016, according to Reuters.
His openness about mental health helped spark wide discussions in the sports world about the challenges athletes face after their careers end.
In 2024, Hatton’s legacy was recognized with his induction into the International Boxing Hall of Fame, honoring his achievements as a champion and his impact on the sport. Throughout his career, Hatton amassed a record of 45 wins and 3 losses, including 32 wins by knockout.
Reflecting on his career during his Hall of Fame induction speech, Hatton said, «I did lead a few wars, didn’t I?»
Hatton passed away at the age of 46. The cause of death was not immediately disclosed. He was found in his home in Hyde, Greater Manchester, and authorities stated that they do not consider his death suspicious
As tributes pour in for one of Britain’s most iconic fighters, learn more about Hatton below.
Hatton became one of the most popular British boxers in the 2000s, breaking through the light welterweight division to win multiple world titles. His breakthrough came with a victory over Kostya Tszyu in 2005, when he won the IBF light welterweight title, solidifying his place as a fan favorite. Known for his relentless fighting style and devoted fans from Manchester, Hatton earned the nickname «Hitman» and quickly became one of the most popular fighters in the sport.
Hatton’s age also led him to the ring with two of the greatest boxers of all time: Floyd Mayweather Jr. and Manny Pacquiao. His clash with Mayweather in 2007, dubbed «Unbeaten», - was his first professional defeat but became one of the most watched fights of that era. Two years later, in 2009, he faced Pacquiao in Las Vegas, suffering a defeat in the second round.
Hatton was a father of three children: son Campbell and daughters Millie and Fern. His eldest son, Campbell, followed in his footsteps, starting a professional boxing career before ending it in 2025.
After retiring from boxing in 2012, Hatton was open about his struggles with depression, substance abuse, and the difficulties of adapting to life outside the ring. He admitted in interviews that he felt lost without the structure of boxing and turned to alcohol and drugs at various times. «I lost control due to drinking, which led to drugs. It was like a runaway train», - he said on BBC in 2016, according to Reuters.
His openness about mental health helped spark wide discussions in the sports world about the challenges athletes face after their careers end.
In 2024, Hatton’s legacy was recognized with his induction into the International Boxing Hall of Fame, honoring his achievements as a champion and his impact on the sport. Throughout his career, Hatton amassed a record of 45 wins and 3 losses, including 32 wins by knockout.
Reflecting on his career during his Hall of Fame induction speech, Hatton said, «I did lead a few wars, didn’t I?»
Hatton passed away at the age of 46. The cause of death was not immediately disclosed. He was found in his home in Hyde, Greater Manchester, and authorities stated that they do not consider his death suspicious
© Artemenko Olga
