Fellow professional boxer Matthew Hatton has paid tribute to his brother Ricky following his death aged 46
Matthew and Ricky Hatton in the early days of their boxing careers
Ricky Hatton’s brother has paid tribute to the former world champion boxer following his death aged 46.
Matthew Hatton, a fellow professional boxer and former world title contender, also shared a series of family pics on social media, including one of the two brothers as school children.
He wrote: “I love you Richard. See you on the other side X.”
Matthew, a former European welterweight champion, fought several times on the undercard of his brother’s matches. His biggest moment in the ring came when he challenged all-time great Canelo Alvarez in California in 2011.
Stockport-born Ricky was found dead at his home in Gee Cross, Hyde this morning (September 14). Greater Manchester Police said his death is not being treated as suspicious.
Matthew Hatton shared this montage of pics as he paid tribute to his brother Ricky
Tributes from across the sporting world have flooded in following Hatton’s death. Tyson Fury described him as a ‘legend’, while Amir Khan said that Hatton was a ‘friend, a mentor, a warrior’. Tommy Fury also said the world champ had a ‘massive part’ to play in his own boxing journey.
Celebrities including Olly Murs and Paddy McGuinness have also shared their sadness at the news of Hatton’s passing, alongside footballers Phil Foden, Roy Keane and Micah Richards.
Never miss a story with the MEN’s daily Catch Up newsletter – get it in your inbox by signing up here
Meanwhile Liam Gallagher, who alongside brother Noel, carried Hatton’s world title belts into the ring ahead of his 2008 Las Vegas fight with Paulie Malignaggi in Las Vegas, has also paid his respects.
Writing on X he said: “Absolutely devastated to hear the news about RICKY HATTON it was an absolute honour to know him and carry his belts RIP CHAMP LIVE FOREVER.”