Boxing Legend Ricky Hatton Passes Away at 46; Manny Pacquiao Pays Tribute

The boxing world mourns the loss of Ricky Hatton, who passed away at the age of 46. Hatton was found deceased at his residence in Hyde, northwest England, with local authorities confirming there are no suspicious circumstances surrounding his death. According to Greater Manchester Police, officers responded to a call on Sunday morning and discovered the boxer’s body.

Manny Pacquiao, a fellow Hall of Famer and Hatton’s opponent in a high-profile 2009 match, expressed his shock and sadness over the news while vacationing in Istanbul with his wife. Pacquiao described Hatton as a memorable figure in boxing, emphasizing his lasting impact on the sport.

"His contributions to boxing will never be forgotten. We all will always remember Ricky Hatton," Pacquiao stated. Reflecting on their encounter, Pacquiao noted the significance of their bout, which concluded with his knockout victory, calling it one of the most unforgettable moments of his career. "It was an honor to share the ring with such a proud British fighter. May he rest in peace," he added.

Ricky Hatton was renowned for his aggressive fighting style, winning world titles in the light-welterweight and welterweight divisions. His rise from amateur and domestic competitions to world-class challenges against opponents like Kostya Tszyu, Floyd Mayweather, and Pacquiao solidified his status as a beloved figure in British boxing.