Tameside Council has said it is prepared to consider proposals to commemorate Ricky Hatton in his hometown of Hyde following the boxing legend’s death at the age of 46.
Hatton, one of Britain’s most popular fighters and a former two-weight world champion, was found dead at his home in Gee Cross, Hyde, on Sunday morning. Police confirmed the death is not being treated as suspicious.
Calls for a permanent tribute to Hatton have quickly gathered momentum, with fans launching a petition to erect a statue in the town where he grew up.
In a statement to the Manchester Evening News, a council spokesperson said: “We are happy to consider and understand how Ricky Hatton’s career and contribution to the community can be recognised in Tameside.
"This needs to be done at the appropriate time when the family can be involved in any discussions.”
Council leader Eleanor Wills paid tribute to Hatton, describing him as a source of inspiration both inside and outside the ring.
“I was deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Ricky last weekend. Ricky was a local lad who was fiercely proud of his roots,” she said.
“Though he achieved remarkable success on the global sporting stage, his heart remained firmly with his hometown of Hyde and the community that shaped him.
Tameside Council has said it is prepared to consider proposals to commemorate Ricky Hatton in his hometown of Hyde following the boxing legend’s death at the age of 46
|PA
“He inspired countless people with his generosity and strong sense of community.
"Ricky was selfless, as he was always wanting to give back to the place he called home.
**SIGN UP FOR OUR FREE DAILY GB NEWS SPORTS NEWSLETTER HERE**
Ricky Hatton was found dead in his Greater Manchester home at the age of 46 | GETTY"Just last December, he enthusiastically supported our Shop Local campaign, encouraging people to support Tameside town centres and businesses.
“My heartfelt condolences go out to Ricky’s family, friends, and all those in our community who are grieving.
"Ricky is a national treasure, and his legacy will live on in Tameside, remembered with deep pride and affection.”
A book of condolence was opened at Hyde Town Hall on Wednesday, giving residents an opportunity to leave personal tributes to the former world champion.
Hatton’s family also released a statement confirming that details of a memorial service will be shared in due course.
They revealed that, despite his well-documented struggles with mental health, the former champion had been “in a good place” and was looking forward to the future.
LATEST SPORTS NEWS:
Ricky Hatton was a fan favourite and captured world titles in two weight divisions during his boxing career | GETTYHe had reportedly packed his bags to fly to Dubai, where he was due to promote a comeback fight and celebrate with his daughters Millie and Fearne, who were expected to watch him compete in person for the first time.
Hatton’s death has sparked a nationwide outpouring of grief from fans and figures across the sporting world. Tributes have flooded in from Tyson Fury, Amir Khan, Frank Bruno, and promoter Eddie Hearn, underlining his standing as one of British boxing’s most beloved figures.