Ricky Hatton’s family have paid tribute to the former world champion after his death at the age of 46.
Hatton was found dead at his home in Hyde on Sunday morning. The death is not being treated as suspicious by police.
During his career between 1997 and 2012, the British fighter – nicknamed “The Hitman” – won titles in the light welterweight and welterweight divisions.
In a statement released by 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.
“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.
New evidence shows ‘significantly more missed opportunities’ to stop Southport killer
Prime suspect in Madeleine McCann case refuses to speak to British police
Money blog: ‘I’ve photographed hundreds of celebrities – here’s my favourite person and my worst experience’
“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.”
Arts and entertainment correspondent
There are few sporting stars who cross from the newspaper back pages to become front page news… but Ricky Hatton always was one of them.
Aside from his boxing brilliance, it was his personality and humour which made people pay attention.
In recent years, his happy-go-lucky character saw him cast on reality shows like Dancing on Ice.
But what’s more interesting is how and why the public came to have such great affection for him back in the day.
Putting it kindly, sports stars aren’t always known for their sparkling personalities.
It was Ricky’s lack of interest in the trappings of fame which accompanied his epic run of victories that made him all the more cool.
Read more from Katie here.
The family statement, released on Monday, also described the “loss” and “pain” at the news of Hatton’s death.
“As a family, our loss is immeasurable, and words cannot truly capture the pain we feel. Yet in the midst of our grief, we have been deeply moved by the overwhelming outpouring of love and support.
“It has been a source of great comfort to see just how many lives Richard touched, and how widely he was admired and respected.
“At this time, we kindly ask for privacy as we come to terms with life without him. In the days and weeks ahead, we will take strength from one another and from the knowledge that Richard’s legacy – both in boxing and as a man – will continue to live on.
“Richard’s memory will forever remain in our hearts, in the hearts of his fans, and in the sport he loved so dearly.”
This breaking news story is being updated and more details will be published shortly.
Please refresh the page for the latest version.
You can receive breaking news alerts on a smartphone or tablet via the Sky News app. You can also follow us on WhatsApp and subscribe to our YouTube channel to keep up with the latest news.
