Ricky Hatton’s heartbroken family release statement on his death
Ricky Hatton’s family say ‘words cannot truly capture the pain we feel’ after the boxing legend was found dead at the age of 46.
Hatton was one of the most successful and popular fighters of his generation, ending his 15-year professional career with 42 wins from 45 bouts.
After the British sporting icon was found dead at his home in Greater Manchester, police said ‘there are not currently believed to be any suspicious circumstances’ surrounding Hatton’s death.
Hatton’s family have paid tribute to the legendary boxer, nicknamed ‘The Hitman’, insisting his memory will ‘forever remain in our hearts’.
‘He had a heart as big as his smile, and his kindness, humour and loyalty touched everyone who was lucky enough to know him,’ the Hatton family said in a statement.
‘As a family, our loss is immeasurable, and words cannot truly capture the pain we feel. Yet in the midst of our grief, we have been deeply moved by the overwhelming outpouring of love and support.
‘Richard’s memory will forever remain in our hearts, in the hearts of his fans, and in the sport he loved so dearly.
‘Richard was so much more than a world champion. To us he was simply “Richard”, our son. A loving father, grandfather, and brother, and a true friend to many.
‘He inspired generations with his fighting spirit, his humility, and his love for the sport. But beyond the titles, the nights to remember, and the roar of the crowd, he remained the same down-to-earth Richard who never forgot where he came from.
‘It has been a source of great comfort to see just how many lives Richard touched, and how widely he was admired and respected.
‘At this time, we kindly ask for privacy as we come to terms with life without him.
‘In the days and weeks ahead, we will take strength from one another and from the knowledge that Richard’s legacy – both in boxing and as a man – will continue to live on.’
Hatton came from a council estate in Stockport to become one of the best boxers of his generation.
He won world title fights against Kostya Tszyu and Jose Luis Castillo while suffering defeats to all-time greats Floyd Mayweather and Manny Pacquiao.
Pacquiao was among those to pay tribute to Hatton on Sunday, describing his former rival as a ‘brave and kind man’.
‘We shared unforgettable moments in boxing history and I will always honour the respect and sportsmanship he showed,’ Pacquiao said.
‘Ricky fought bravely, not just in the ring, but in his journey through life. He truly had a good fight, and we are all blessed to have been part of his wonderful journey.
‘My prayers and deepest condolences go out to the Hatton family and all his loved ones. May the Lord give you strength and comfort in this difficult time. May he rest in peace.’
Pacquiao’s former trainer Freddie Roach added: ‘Ricky had a wonderful sense of humour, but more importantly he was a warrior and a winner. There will be only one Ricky Hatton.’
A minute’s appreciation was held in tribute to Hatton prior to Sunday’s derby between Manchester City and Manchester United at the Etihad Stadium.
Hatton, a lifelong City fan, was reportedly due to attend the game, which his beloved Sky Blues won 3-0 thanks to Erling Haaland’s brace and a Phil Foden header.
Hatton’s former promoter, Frank Warren, described ‘The Hitman’ as a ‘modern great’ who ‘inspired a generation of young boxers and fans’.
‘I am extremely saddened to learn of the passing of British boxing legend Ricky Hatton,’ he said.
‘A superbly talented fighter who inspired a generation of young boxers and fans in a way very few had done before due to both his personality and the entertainment he provided in the ring.
‘From making his debut Widnes in 1997 to then go on to win one of the most historic fights in British boxing history against Kostya Tszyu in Manchester, Ricky will rightly go down as one of the modern greats of this sport.’
Hatton leaves behind three children – Campbell, 24, Millie, 13, and Fearne, 12, and seven-year-old granddaughter Lyla.
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Ricky Hatton’s heartbroken family release statement on his death
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