Former boxing world champion Ricky Hatton has officially confirmed his romance with Coronation Street actress Claire Sweeney, putting months of speculation to rest. The pair have been quietly dating for several months and are now stepping out together publicly.
From Friendship to Romance
The 45-year-old boxing legend and 52-year-old actress first met years ago but recently reconnected, with their friendship blossoming into something more meaningful. According to sources close to the couple, they've been enjoying discreet dates and getting to know each other properly away from the public eye.
Going Public in Style
The couple made their first major public appearance together at a Manchester charity boxing event, where they didn't shy away from showing affection. Witnesses described them as "completely smitten" with each other, holding hands and sharing laughs throughout the evening.
Supporting Each Other's Careers
Hatton has been a regular supporter of Sweeney's theatre performances, recently attending her show in Blackpool. Meanwhile, Sweeney has shown interest in Hatton's boxing academy and fitness regime, with insiders noting they share a strong mutual admiration for each other's professional achievements.
Overcoming Past Heartbreaks
Both Hatton and Sweeney have experienced public relationship struggles in the past. Hatton's previous long-term relationship ended in 2022, while Sweeney was previously engaged. Friends say they've found genuine happiness together and are taking things at a comfortable pace.
What Friends Are Saying
Close friends of both celebrities have expressed their delight at the new relationship. One source revealed: "They're really good for each other. Ricky's been through some tough times and Claire has brought so much joy back into his life. They make a lovely couple."
The couple are said to be enjoying keeping things relatively low-key while exploring their connection, splitting their time between Manchester and Claire's commitments elsewhere.
