Boxing legend Ricky Hatton has been forced to confront a vicious and fabricated online rumour claiming he had died, in a cruel social media hoax that spread rapidly across platforms on Tuesday.
The former two-weight world champion, affectionately known as 'The Hitman', took to his official Instagram account to reassure his legions of concerned fans that he is very much alive and well. The 45-year-old shared a screenshot of the false news article alongside a clear message for those spreading the lies.
"Just to let people know, this is not true. I am alive and well." Hatton stated, putting the damaging speculation to rest.
The situation escalated to the point where Greater Manchester Police felt compelled to issue an official statement to quell the worrying reports. A spokesperson for the force confirmed, "We are aware of a post circulating on social media reporting that boxer Ricky Hatton had died. This is not true and we have spoken to Ricky who is very much alive and well."
The fake news article, which mimicked the style of a legitimate news outlet, caused widespread alarm amongst the boxing community and the British public. Fans immediately expressed their relief upon hearing the truth, flooding social media with supportive messages for the Manchester icon.
This incident highlights the distressing speed at which malicious misinformation can travel online, causing unnecessary anguish for the families and fans of public figures. Hatton, who has been open about his past mental health struggles, has thankfully emerged unscathed from the bizarre and hurtful prank.
