Ricky Hatton's son posts emotional tribute to father after tragic death aged 46

Ben McCaffrey

By Ben McCaffrey


Published: 17/09/2025

- 08:17

Campbell Hatton took to Instagram to pay tribute to his late father

Campbell Hatton has shared a heartbreaking tribute following the death of his father, British boxing icon Ricky Hatton.

The 24-year-old posted on Instagram on Tuesday, declaring "heartbroken isn't the word" alongside family photographs.


"Everybody has always said I was your double - never a truer word said. Looked up to you in every aspect of life," Campbell wrote in his tribute.

"Can't explain how much I'm going to miss the laughs we had and all the good times, which I will remember forever.

Campbell Hatton, Ricky Hatton

Campbell Hatton has shared a heartbreaking tribute following the death of his father, British boxing icon Ricky Hatton

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INSTAGRAM

"Just can't believe we won't have any more. Love you, Dad."

The former world champion was discovered dead at his Hyde residence in Greater Manchester during the early hours of Sunday morning.

Authorities confirmed they found no suspicious circumstances surrounding the 46-year-old's passing.

Hatton's illustrious career spanned 15 years, during which he claimed 45 victories from 48 professional contests.

Similarly to his father, Campbell won his first 14 fights before retiring earlier this year.

Ricky, known as 'the Hitman', captured world titles in both light-welterweight and welterweight divisions.

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Ricky Hatton

Ricky Hatton was a fan favourite and captured world titles in two weight divisions

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His popularity extended far beyond British shores, with approximately 30,000 supporters travelling to witness his 2007 Las Vegas bout against Floyd Mayweather.

Hatton had been planning a return to the ring this October, having last fought professionally in 2012. He was scheduled to fight Eisa Al Dah in Dubai on December 2.

The Hatton family released a collective statement on Monday expressing their profound grief. They described Richard as "so much more than a world champion," emphasising his role as a devoted son, father, grandfather and brother.

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"He had a heart as big as his smile, and his kindness, humour and loyalty touched everyone who was lucky enough to know him," the family stated.

"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"

"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.

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Campbel Hatton, Ricky Hatton

Tributes have poured in for Ricky Hatton after his tragic death

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"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."

Former partner Claire Sweeney shared her own heartfelt message about the boxing champion.

The actress, who dated Hatton following their appearance on Dancing On Ice in 2024, posted on Instagram that she "adored and cherished" him.

"Ricky, you were the people's champ. We adored and cherished you. Love you always," Sweeney wrote, accompanying her words with photographs of their time together.

Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham announced that the city would explore appropriate ways to commemorate Hatton's legacy in the coming weeks and months, recognising his significant contribution to both sport and the community.