Former world boxing champion by the IBF, IBO, and WBA versions, Ricky Hatton, was found dead in his home in Manchester. The athlete was 46 years old, reports Baltimore Chronicle with reference to The Sun.
Manchester police confirmed Hatton’s death, noting that there are no signs of violence or suspicious circumstances. The emergency call was received on September 14 at 6:45 a.m.
Hatton began his professional career in 1997 and competed until 2012. He won championship titles in the light-welterweight and welterweight divisions, holding IBF, WBA, and IBO belts. Overall, the Briton fought 48 matches, securing 45 wins (32 by knockout) and suffering only three losses. In 2007, he was defeated by Floyd Mayweather, and in 2009 he lost by knockout to Manny Pacquiao. His last official fight took place in November 2012 against Ukrainian Vyacheslav Senchenko. Afterward, he retired from professional boxing, but in 2022 he returned for an exhibition match against Marco Antonio Barrera.
Despite retiring, Hatton had planned a comeback. On December 2, he was scheduled to fight Eici Al Dahha in Dubai. Hatton stated that his return was meant to inspire people struggling with mental health challenges.
In the United Kingdom, Hatton was regarded as a national hero and called the “people’s champion.” His ring entrances were accompanied by the Gallagher brothers from the band Oasis. After retiring from competition, he worked as a promoter, coach, and participated in television projects. Hatton is survived by his son Campbell, who is also pursuing a professional boxing career, and two daughters.
Earlier we wrote that rematch result: american Brandon Adams defeats ukrainian Serhiy Bohachuk again.