The world of boxing is in mourning following the death of Ricky “The Hitman” Hatton, who has passed away at the age of 46. An English icon and one of Britain’s most beloved sons, Hatton was more than a former multiple-weight world champion — he was a man of the people. With his northern wit, warmth, and humility, he was as relatable outside the ring as he was ferocious inside it.

Born Richard John Hatton in Stockport, Greater Manchester, Hatton grew into one of the most magnetic figures of modern boxing. A cheeky chappie with a charm that endeared him to the masses, he carried with him an everyman spirit that made fans feel like they knew him personally. In the ring, however, he was uncompromising. Known for his relentless, no-nonsense style, Hatton became feared for his signature liver shot — a weapon that left opponents crumpled and cemented his reputation as one of the sport’s most punishing body punchers.

Hatton’s career record speaks volumes: 45 wins, 32 by knockout, against only 3 defeats. He claimed world titles across multiple weight classes, defeating the likes of John Thaxton, Ben Tackie, Kostya Tszyu, Jose Luis Castillo, Luis Collazo, and Paulie Malignaggi. His willingness to test himself against the very best saw him step into the ring with Floyd Mayweather Jr. and Manny Pacquiao during their primes — contests he lost, but in doing so he demonstrated his fearless spirit and won enduring respect.

In 2005, Hatton was named Ring Magazine Fighter of the Year and ESPN Fighter of the Year, the first British boxer ever to receive both honours. His battles filled arenas from Manchester to Las Vegas, and he carried with him a legion of loyal supporters who followed him in their thousands, draped in flags and roaring his name. Few fighters in history have inspired such devotion.

Yet Hatton’s impact extended beyond boxing. Open about his personal struggles, he became an advocate for mental health awareness, speaking candidly about the challenges he faced outside the ring. His honesty gave strength to many and revealed the depth of his courage, which was not only physical but emotional.

Hatton’s passing leaves behind a void not only in British boxing but in the culture of the sport itself. His was a career that embodied blood, guts, and glory — but also laughter, warmth, and humanity. He will be remembered not just as a world champion, but as a man who carried the hopes of a nation and never stopped fighting for them.

Rest in peace, Ricky Hatton. Forever a champion.