Former world boxing champion Ricky Hatton died over the weekend. He was 46 years old.
Few details have been released on Hatton’s death. However, the Greater Manchester, England Police Department has said that there is nothing suspicious about Hatton’s death.
The family of Ricky Hatton released a statement about his death Monday morning.
“It is with the heaviest of hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved son Richard,“ the statement said. “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, humor and loyalty touched everyone who was lucky enough to know him.”
Ricky Hatton’s body was found at his home in Greater Manchester, England on Sunday, according to the Independent.
Hatton is considered to be one of the most popular British boxers of all time. He held multiple championships in the light welterweight division during his career, as well as one in the welterweight division.
He was named the Fighter of the Year by ESPN and others in 2005.
“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,” the statement from his family continued.
“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.”
Some of Hatton’s biggest fights came against boxing legends Floyd Mayweather and Manny Pacquiao.
Hatton’s family is asking for privacy as it deals with his loss.
“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,” the family said.
“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.”
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