The son of British boxing icon Ricky Hatton has found solace and new love in the arms of a woman with a deep connection to his late father. Campbell Hatton, 25, is in a relationship with Brooke Heaton, 22, whose father, non-league football manager Simon Heaton, was one of Ricky's closest friends.
A Bond Forged in Shared History and Grief
Campbell has endured an immensely difficult period, mourning the loss of his father, who died by suicide in September 2025 at the age of 46. The young father, who has a seven-year-old daughter from a previous relationship, has also faced the deaths of his own best friend and another family associate in the past year. It is against this backdrop of tragedy that his romance with Brooke has blossomed, offering a beacon of hope.
The couple made their relationship public in early January 2026, with Brooke posting a heartfelt birthday tribute to Campbell on Instagram. "Happy birthday Campbell. You are so special. Have the best day, I love u," she wrote alongside a series of affectionate photos. The pair had already enjoyed a New Year's holiday abroad, believed to be in Tenerife, a favourite destination of Ricky's, posting loved-up images from the trip.
Family Ties: A Father's Best Friend
The connection between the two families runs deep. Simon Heaton, 51, who now manages Abbey Hey FC in the North West Counties League, knew Ricky Hatton from their youth and affectionately called him his "best pal". Simon featured in the 2023 documentary 'Hatton', reminiscing about Ricky's early sporting talent in the family-run Harehill Tavern.
Friends and family have warmly welcomed the new couple. Commenting on a social media post, a friend named Chelle Wray said, "Aw, you're with Simons daughter, love this...you look lovely together. Keep on keeping on Campbell." Another, Andrea Mellor, added a poignant note: "Be happy you're dad would approve."
Looking Towards a Brighter Future
In a candid Facebook message posted on Wednesday, 7th January 2026, Campbell alluded to his struggles while hinting at a turning point. He wrote, "2025 as bad is it can get for me and mine. Lost the people close to me as well myself for most of it but started getting things back together over the last few weeks. Long way to go still but here’s to a better 2026."
The couple have been spotted sharing intimate moments at various events, including watching a match at the Etihad Stadium, home to Ricky's beloved Manchester City. Ricky Hatton, an MBE and two-weight world champion who fought legends like Floyd Mayweather and Manny Pacquiao, left behind a reported £40 million fortune for his children, Campbell, Millie, 13, and Fearne, 12.
While Campbell was once a promising boxer himself, he has since left the ring to work as a solar panel installer. As he and Brooke step forward into the new year, their relationship, rooted in shared history and mutual support, represents a poignant new chapter for the Hatton family.
