Released today on September 15 via the Greater Manchester Police, the Hatton family shared the following statement: “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.
“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.”
Hatton’s older brother Matthew, who fought Canelo in his professional boxing career, posted the following words on social media: “I love you Richard. See you on the other side.”
Tributes have also been paid from across the world of sport and entertainment, including Amir Khan, Tyson Fury, Chris Eubank Jr, Liam Gallagher, Vincent Kompany, and many more.
The Mayor of Greater Manchester, Andy Burnham, said in statement, “He made us smile and made us proud… We will find a way of honouring him properly,” he added.
Former world champion, Barry McGuigan told Sky Sport’s Jonathan Samuels that Ricky Hatton was “a phenomenal attraction, both inside and outside the ring”.
He added, “He fought at a ferocious pace… He was a great body puncher. He was a real throwback to the swashbuckling days of the 1930s and 1940s. He was just so great to watch and so entertaining, such an enthralling style.”
Marco Antonio Barrera, who fought Hatton in an unscored exhibition bout in 2022, said the boxer “was a once in a lifetime man” and was his “closest friend in boxing”.
Manchester City goalscorer Phil Foden dedicated his side’s 3-0 derby win over Manchester United on Sunday to Hatton, a lifelong City fan. Before kick-off, a one-minute applause was held in Hatton’s memory.
