Tributes continue to pour in for world boxing champion Ricky Hatton who was found dead at his home on Sunday.
David Beckham posted photographs of the former boxer on his Instagram stories, while Hatton's Dancing On Ice co-stars also left tributes to The Hitman. Hatton was just 46 when he discovered dead at his residence in Hyde, Greater Manchester, on Sunday morning.
Greater Manchester Police confirmed the death is not being treated as suspicious. This heartbreaking news arrives only months after the legendary fighter announced his comeback to the ring with a fight scheduled for December.
Steve Bunce, the iconic boxing pundit, revealed that he had been told Hatton had not shown up to a fight he was due to attend after learning of the legend's death, saying: "Apparently, talking to people, he didn't show up on Friday at the gym, and he was meant to be at a fight last night, and he didn't show up, and someone went to his house this morning... It is shocking news."
Hatton, who would have celebrated his 47th birthday in October, had candidly spoken about his battles with mental health issues and drug addiction.
Throughout his illustrious boxing career, he held numerous world championships, as well as UK titles, and was honoured as Fighter of the Year in 2015.
This is a breaking news story. Stay tuned for more updates.
AJ hails Hatton
RIP Hitman
— Anthony Joshua (@anthonyjoshua) September 14, 2025
One of the best to do it.
Our British hero. pic.twitter.com/8H7kEBsDN7
Here's a reminder of some of our Hatton content.
His family released a ststement following his passing whilst his friend has discussed his final hours.
Manchester mayor pays tribute
Hard to take this in.
— Andy Burnham (@AndyBurnhamGM) September 14, 2025
Ricky was much loved by so many in Greater Manchester.
He was the kind of person who would always turn up for people, supporting so many causes.
He made us smile and made us proud.
We will find a way of honouring him properly.
Rest in peace, Champ. https://t.co/6nYJyKFyMf
Beckham and Rooney hail Hatton's legacy
England icons David Beckham and Wayne Rooney have both paid tributes to Ricky Hatton in light of his sudden passing.
“Ricky was one of a kind,” wrote Beckham on Instagram. “Just heartbreaking.”
Rooney - who carried Hatton's belts into the ring before a fight with Jose Luis Castillo in 2007 - said he was “devastated” and Hatton was a “a legend, a warrior and a great person”.
Amir Khan issues powerful mental health message
He explained: “As fighters, we tell ourselves we’re strong — we train, we sweat, we take hits, we get up. But sometimes the hardest fight happens in silence, in the mind.
“Mental health isn’t weakness. It’s part of being human. And we must talk about it. We must reach out. We must lean on each other.
“Ricky, thank you for everything. For your fights, your moments of glory, your grit. Thank you for pushing us, showing us what’s possible.
“To everyone reading this: if you’re hurting or struggling, you are not alone. Talk. Reach out. Because we need more light, more compassion, more understanding.
“Rest well, Ricky. You’ll always have your place in the ring of our memories.”
City icons continue paying tribute
The Man City love continued with Micah Richards another man to hail the influence and legacy that Ricky Hatton leaves.
"He's such a British icon... a true Man City fan, but most importantly he was a man of the people,” he said.
"He was the nicest guy ever - I remember going down to one of his gyms and I was a bit nervous because I didn't know about boxing and he said 'just do this' and he took his time.
"For him to take the time and effort, I've been multiple times for beers with him just talking about football and life. To get this news now is just surreal."
Tributes pour in from TV stars
Ricky Hatton’s Dancing On Ice co-stars have led tributes to the former boxer after his death
Radio presenter Adele Roberts, described Hatton as a “amazing man”, while Olympian Greg Rutherford said the news was “utterly heart breaking”.
Neville pays tribute
He said: "The only smile you could possibly have is around Ricky Hatton, thinking that he’s somewhere watching this game and his beloved Manchester City have won this match. Because to me today, I feel sick in my stomach, from the moment this morning, late morning, when that news broke through, that’s the only thing really that’s taken my mind today.
“Someone who is an unbelievable Manchunian, someone who carried Manchester all around the world, to America in massive fights, he lit up the city and the arenas of the city with his boxing, someone who went in and literally fought like everything hung on it every single time, a warrior. When you talk about football players and do they care? You never doubted that about Ricky Hatton when he went into the ring.
“I met him a number of times in my life, grounded, earthy, a family man, someone you’d say ‘what a good lad.’ I remember two or three years ago it was our Christmas party, and Ricky turned up, he wasn’t invited. I remember having a drink with him, that was the sort of lad he was, whether you were blue or whether you were red, he cared about Manchester a lot and he cared about his country.
“Today is a devastating day, when you think of the love that he had for this club and the support that he gave to this football club, he would have absolutely loved this afternoon, he’d have been out tonight in Manchester with his mates having a beer, having a laugh and to think that’s not going to happen again it’s heartbreaking it really is.”
“I’m a United fan, I wanted United to win, but the only potential sort of smile you could give that result is that Ricky would have enjoyed today. 46 years of age is no age and it will take quite a bit of time for the city to get over that news because he was a very, very popular man. He was someone that United fans loved, someone that City fans loved, all Mancunians loved and he did an awful lot for the city. He was a champion, a champion in the ring and a champion out of the ring.”
Man City star Doku dedicates derby win to Hatton
After downing their local neighbours 3-0 the Belgian winger said: “The atmosphere was incredible and it was very sad to hear [of Ricky’s passing].
“We know important this game is, and this win for him. This is football, but we know how much football can change people’s lives so we were happy we could dedicate this win to him.
“I enjoyed every minute of [the game]. For the game, you’re very excited as it’s a derby and we know the task we have, we want to win every game. From the first minute I felt we were really in the game and focused. It turned out well, so I’m very happy.”
Pacquiao hails his "unforgettable moment" with Hatton
One of Ricky Hatton’s most iconic fights came as he was beaten by Manny Pacquiao.
He has reacted to the death of his former rival by saying: “I am deeply saddened to hear about the passing of Ricky Hatton. He was not only a great fighter inside the ring but also a brave and kind man in life.
“We shared unforgettable moments in boxing history and I will always honor the respect and sportsmanship he showed. Ricky fought bravely, not just in the ring, but in his journey through life. He truly had a good fight, and we are all blessed to have been part of his wonderful journey.
“My prayers and deepest condolences go out to the Hatton family and all his loved ones. May the Lord give you strength and comfort in this difficult time. May he rest in peace.”
Roy Keane hails 'warrior' Hatton
Former Manchester United captain Roy Keane has hailed Ricky Hatton as a 'warrior' as he paid tribute to the boxer.
Speaking on Sky Sports' coverage of the Manchester Derby on Sunday, Keane said: "The guy was a warrior, I think that's why the fans loved watching him in the ring.
"We know how tough that sport is, but my god he gave everything for that sport, and that's why the fans loved follwoing him. He had a number of fights in America and thousands would travel over because they thought so highly of him.
"He left eveything in that ring. Absolutely shocking news."
Liam Gallagher 'devastated' by Hatton's death
Liam Gallagher has spoken about Ricky Hatton's tragic death, saying that it was 'an honour' to know the boxing champion.
As the world struggles to digest the tragic news of his passing, Oasis frontman Liam, 52, has now paid tribute. Taking to X on Sunday evening, the Wonderwall singer wrote: "Absolutely devastated to hear the news about RICKY HATTON it was an absolute honour to know him and carry his belts RIP CHAMP LIVE FOREVER LG."
Ricky was found dead at his home in Greater Manchester on Sunday morning (September 14) and tributes have been pouring in from the likes of David Beckham to his Dancing On Ice co-stars.
Tommy Fury leaves poignant tribute to Ricky Hatton
Former Love Island star and fellow boxer Tommy Fury shared a photo of him and Hatton on Instagram and said he felt "gutted".
"Heartbroken doesn't even come close," he said.
"I turned pro with you by my side Ricky and you'll always be a massive part of my journey in boxing and in life. I am so shocked and gutted. Rest in peace champ."
The athlete was open about his mental health issues he endured upon his retirement from the ring. He announced in July that he would return to the ring in a professional bout in Dubai in December.
Paddy McGuinness fights tears as he announces death of pal Ricky Hatton on radio show
Also paying tribute was Hatton's Dancing on Ice co-star and West End performer Amber Davies who said she was "thinking of all his loved ones" in a post to her Instagram stories.
Elsewhere, former Dancing On Ice judge Oti Mabuse said he was the "sweetest man" and TV and radio presenter Paddy McGuinness said he was the "people's champion".
McGuinness learned of Hatton's death during his BBC Radio 2 show and said: "Apologies everyone just had to play a couple of songs back to back there.
"I've just learned some terrible news that a great mate of mine has passed away, Ricky Hatton. Sending love and thoughts with his family."
Paddy McGuinness fights tears as he announces death of pal Ricky Hatton on radio show
Adele Roberts calls Hatton 'an amazing man'
In another post, Adele Roberts said: "Goodnight Ricky. Absolutely devastated and heartbroken by the news of Ricky's passing. Thinking of his family, friends right now and all who knew him.
"He was such an amazing man. Someone I have admired from afar for years and couldn't believe it when I got the chance to meet him.
"He was everything I hoped he'd be and more. So kind, funny, generous... his laughter and spirit filled the room... he had the heart of a champ and was fearless. You will be sorely missed Ricky.
"Gone way too soon. Rest in power Champ."
Greg Rutherford's emotional tribute to Hatton
Greg Rutherford shared a photo of the pair on the ice to Instagram and said: "Utterly heart breaking news. I was so star struck when I met Ricky for the first time and asked for this photo.
"I told him how big a fan I was and through the entire chat he couldn't have been kinder and more engaged. Getting to know him the little bit I did that kindness always shined through.
"We had a couple of chats about mental health and the battles he'd faced and I told him some things that I hadn't told anyone else about my own battles. He had some amazing words of support and I will always be thankful for that. A great human first and one of the greatest boxers we've seen. He's going to be so missed. Love to his family."
Greater Manchester Police says Hatton's death is not being treated as suspicious
The death of Hatton, who competed on the 16th series of the ITV show, is not being treated as suspicious by Greater Manchester Police.
A police spokesperson said on Sunday: "Officers were called by a member of the public to attend Bowlacre Road, Hyde, Tameside, at 6.45am today where they found the body of a 46-year-old man.
"There are not currently believed to be any suspicious circumstances."
Ricky Hatton's Dancing On Ice co-stars led tributes to the boxing great
Ricky Hatton's Dancing On Ice co-stars have led tributes to the former boxer after he was found dead in his home at the age of 46.
Radio presenter Adele Roberts, described Hatton as a "amazing man", while Olympian Greg Rutherford said the news was "utterly heart breaking".
The popular fighter was also remembered as being "one of a kind" by former footballer David Beckham, who posted photos of Hatton to his Instagram stories.
Ricky Hatton's younger brother posts to social media in emotional message
Ricky Hatton's brother, Matthew, has posted to social media in an emotional tribute.
The 44-year-old is the younger sibling of the former world champion boxer and fought on a number of the undercards where his elder brother starred.
In a post on X with a collage of pictures of the pair through the years, he wrote: "I love you Richard.
"See you on the other side X."
I love you Richard
— Matthew Hatton (@MagicMattHatton) September 14, 2025
See you on the other side X pic.twitter.com/X5u3tAvSxz
Hatton death was 'extra motivation' Man City
Phil Foden has admitted that Ricky Hatton's death gave Manchester City "extra motivation" for their win over Man United.
Foden scored first in the 3-0 win and said the win was "all for him". He said: "100% I had extra motivation going into the game, it was for him and his family and for the people suffering right now.
"The lads gave everything. It wasn't a pretty match but it was all for him."
Man City's perfect tribute
This was the best possible tribute Manchester City could have paid to Ricky Hatton.
City delivered a performance which would have made Hatton proud as they blew bitter rivals Manchester United away on the day they lost one of their greatest supporters. Fittingly, Phil Foden, also a boyhood City fan, was at the heart of the victory as he had promised before kick-off to win the derby for Hatton - and duly delivered.
Read how Man City beat United here
Jamie Carragher hails Hatton as 'most popular British fighter' he remembers
Former Liverpool defender Jamie Carragher has paid tribute to Ricky Hatton following the news of his death.
The Sky Sports pundit tweeted: "Ricky Hatton was the most popular British fighter i can ever remember, great fighter & a great man.
"RIP Ricky."
The post has been viewed nearly 200,000 times with 4,700 likes.
Guardiola thanks United fans
Man City boss Pep Guardiola has thanked Man United fans for their part in his side's tribute to Ricky Hatton.
The Etihad Stadium crowd applauded for a minute before Sunday's game. "I have been ten years and I don’t remember one so intense like today. Thank you so much to Manchester United fans.
"I know he was a world champion in boxing. There are no words that can contain the pain that the family can feel right now.
"We are close and I know how incredible he was as a Manchester City fan. He could live the good moments and the bad moments. The moment of silence was unbelievable, I will always remember it. A massive, massive City fan."
Close friend pens heartfelt tribute
Boxing manager Mickey Helliet has shared a touching message about Ricky Hatton. He worked with the boxer and advised him on managing other boxes.
In a touching Facebook tribute, Mickey wrote: "I was absolutely heartbroken to hear the news this weekend about the death of one of my very good friends Ricky Hatton.
"I remember Rick being an exceptional talent in the amateurs. It didn't seem to matter who he was matched with, he'd not just beat them but absolutely smash them from pillar to post. It was impossible not to be in awe of Ricky the fighting man."
Ricky Hatton had 'missed meetings with friends'
Details of Ricky Hatton's final weeks have emerged in a new Mirror report, with friends left concerned about the boxing legend after he had missed meetings.
One source close to the star said: “He had not shown up for a couple of gatherings and had been very distant.
“He seemed a bit down and that led to his friends being worried about him.”
'Part of the fabric of Manchester'
Comedian and fellow Manchester City fan Jason Manford has admitted he is "gutted" he won't bump into the 46-year-old at games anymore.
In a tribute on his Instagram page, he said: "Gutted I won’t be bumping in to Ricky Hatton at the game any more. Fellow blue, proper legend - had a few great nights out with him over the years although the last time I saw him, we were both at the Olivia Rodrigo gig with our daughters!
"Strange place to catch up, but he was as funny & charming as always. Can’t believe he’s gone just before the derby as well - he’ll be fuming about that!
He was part of the fabric of Manchester. Funny, sharp, always up for a chat with anyone. One of those people you were just always glad to see. Sorely missed already. Thoughts & prayers with his daughters & loved ones."
McGuiness makes tribute
After struggling to hold back tears when discussing Ricky Hatton's passing on BBC Radio 2, Paddy McGuiness has now paid his own tribute to the boxer.
Taking to Instagram, he said: "World Champion. People's Champion. I've had some great times with Ricky over the years. From being out in Vegas to the streets of Manchester, he always had time for everyone.
"Deepest condolences to Ray, Carol, Campbell, Millie, Fearne and all his family. Rest in Greatness champ."
'Tough to wake up to'
Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola has said it was "tough to wake up" to the news that Ricky Hatton this morning.
Speaking on Sky Sports ahead of his team's game with Man United, he said: "Of course, his success, world champion, he was a massive fan.
"For his family, his kids, he was a grandad - you always think about that when people can think to do this kind of thing.
"One person has taken their life with an incredible family and friends and on behalf of Man City and all the people, I wish him comfort in this tough hour and the weeks ahead in the tough loss for them.
"And for the boxing world because he was a true champion and for the Man City family."
'Just heartbreaking'
England football legend David Beckham has posted a tribute after the news of Ricky Hatton's sad death on Sunday.
Posting three Instagram stories, he put: "Ricky was one of a kind... Just heartbreaking. Ricky was special in many ways. Loved by his fans."
He posted another story with one of the Hitman's quotes: "As long as I've got the love of the fans, that means everything to me."
Ricky Hatton has died at the age of 46
World boxing champion Ricky 'The Hitman' Hatton has been found dead at his home in Greater Manchester.
The Stockport-born fighter was 46 years old. A police cordon was in place at his home in Gee Cross, Hyde this morning (September 14).
Greater Manchester Police has confirmed that a body has been found and said that the death is not being treated as suspicious.
'Knocking everyone out'
Thomas McDonagh, a former boxer who grew up with Ricky Hatton, has explained how the 46-year-old was "knocking everyone out" when he was 12, 13 and 14.
McDonagh trained together at gyms in Greater Manchester. "I'd known Ricky since I was about 10 or 11," he told BBC Radio Manchester. "As a kid he was an unbelievable fighter, he was a superstar."
He added: "He came to the gym all the time, he'd just got time for everyone, he came out and sat down and talked to them."