Ricky Hatton’s family have spoken publicly for the first time since the boxing legend’s death, describing their loss as “immeasurable”. The 46-year-old former world welterweight champion was found dead at his home in Hyde, Greater Manchester on Sunday, with police saying there were no suspicious circumstances.
In a statement released through Greater Manchester police, the family said: “It is with the heaviest of hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved son Richard. 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 had a heart as big as his smile, and his kindness, humour and loyalty touched everyone who was lucky enough to know him.”
They added: “To the wider world, Richard will always be remembered as one of boxing’s greatest champions – a man who gave everything inside the ring and wore his heart on his sleeve outside of it. 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.”
The family noted the “overwhelming outpouring of love and support” and said it had been “a source of great comfort” to see how many lives Hatton touched. They asked for privacy as they come to terms with life without him, adding: “Richard’s memory will forever remain in our hearts, in the hearts of his fans, and in the sport he loved so dearly.”
Andy Burnham, the Greater Manchester mayor, said Hatton’s death was “hard to take in” and described him as “much loved by so many in Greater Manchester”. Burnham said the city would find a way to honour Hatton properly, adding: “He made us smile and made us proud. Rest in peace, Champ.”
