Boxer Ricky Hatton Dies at 46
LONDON – Former British boxer Ricky Hatton has died at 46, as reported by the BBC on Sunday.
Hatton, a two-time world champion, competed in both light welterweight and welterweight divisions before his retirement in 2012. Interestingly, he was set to make a comeback in Dubai later this year.
Authorities in Greater Manchester stated that his body was discovered in Hyde on Sunday morning. However, a police spokesman noted that there were no suspicious circumstances surrounding his death.
Despite a notable career with 45 wins out of 48 fights, Hatton faced significant challenges after retirement, including multiple suicide attempts. He had been candid about his battles with depression, alcohol, and drug use.
In a 2016 interview with BBC Radio, Hatton shared, “I was off the rails drinking so that was leading to drugs. It was like a runaway train.” This highlights the personal struggles he faced, even as he was known for his achievements in the ring.
He achieved remarkable success, particularly in 2005 when he stopped Australia’s Kostya Tszyu, adding the IBF light welterweight title to his existing WBU belt. Hatton boasted an impressive record of 43-0 until he faced Floyd Mayweather Jr. in Las Vegas in 2007, a match that changed the trajectory of his career.
