Coronation Street star Claire Sweeney has paid tribute to former boxing champion Ricky Hatton after he was found dead at his home in Hyde, Greater Manchester. Police were called to his residence on Bowlacre Road at 6:45am on Sunday, where they discovered the body of the 46-year-old. No suspicious circumstances are believed to be involved.
Sweeney and Hatton dated last year after meeting on Dancing on Ice. The actress had publicly supported Hatton's planned return to the ring, sharing a video of his fight announcement on Instagram with the caption: 'This is brilliant.' Following the news of his death, her words take on a poignant significance.
Hatton, who retired in 2012 with a record of 45-3, had announced a comeback to fight Eisa Al Dah in Dubai in December. However, an eye injury sustained at an Oasis reunion concert prevented him from attending a press conference, though he joined via video call, expressing enthusiasm for the bout.
The boxing community has been mourning Hatton's death. Tyson Fury posted: 'RIP to the legend @rickyhatton, may he RIP. There will only ever be one Ricky Hatton.' Chris Eubank Jr said: 'Rest in Peace Mr Ricky Hatton. We salute you,' and Michael Owen shared his sorrow. The Ring Magazine also paid respects.
Claire Sweeney spoke to MailOnline last winter about her split from Hatton, saying they remained friends. 'I'm great - we're still friends, we were friends, we dated and now we're friends again. It's all good,' she said.
