Ricky Hatton was “in a good place” before his death, his family has said – as the son of the boxing legend paid tribute to his father.
“Heartbroken isn’t the word,” Campbell Hatton said in the post, alongside a series of family photos.
“Everybody has always said I was your double – never a truer word said. Looked up to you in every aspect of life.”
Hatton was found dead at his home in Hyde, Greater Manchester, on Sunday. Police said there were no suspicious circumstances.
Campbell’s tribute came after others poured in from across the world of sport and beyond.
Like his father, Campbell pursued a career in boxing, making his professional debut in 2021. He retired earlier this year.
He added in his post: “Can’t explain how much I’m going to miss the laughs we had and all the good times, which I will remember forever. Just can’t believe we won’t have any more. Love you, Dad.”
Hatton had announced he was coming out of retirement for an exhibition bout on 2 December, in Dubai.
That would have marked 13 years since his last professional contest.
He was “excited for the future” before his death, his family said in a new statement on Wednesday.
“We are all distraught at the events of recent days,” they said.
“To all our knowledge, despite his well-documented struggles, Richard was in a good place.
“He was excited for the future; his bag was packed ready to go to Dubai to promote a comeback fight and he was planning a celebration in Dubai of which his beloved girls Millie and Fearne were to be the centre of. He was excited that they would see him fight for the first time in person.”
He had dinner with his girls on Friday night and “was not alone in life or in the days before the weekend”.
“We are all in shock at the events that unfolded at the weekend,” they said. “Richard was found by his friend and long-time manager Paul Speak, who we are supporting at this time, along with Richard’s parents, Ray and Carol, his children and the wider family.
“The outpouring of grief and love from the nation and worldwide shows how much Richard was loved. It will, in time, be something that gives us all some comfort and pride.”
Details of a memorial service would be released in due course, they added.
Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham has said the city will give consideration to how best to honour Hatton’s memory properly in the weeks and months ahead.
One of the many tributes laid in memory of Hatton. Pic: PA
‘The people’s champ’
It comes after soap star Claire Sweeney said she “adored and cherished” her ex-boyfriend. They were long-time friends and dated for several months after competing on Dancing On Ice in 2024.
Soap star Sweeney wrote on Instagram: “I’ve needed a few days to process the devastating news about my dear friend Ricky.
“My thoughts are with his family especially his children Campbell, Millie Fearne and Lyla, his granddaughter.
“Ricky, you were the people’s champ. We adored and cherished you. Love you always.”
She also posted a montage of photos of them together.
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