Ricky Hatton's family have paid tribute to a 'beloved' son, father and grandfather.

The Stockport-born world champion boxer passed away at his home in Hyde on Sunday 14 September.

In a statement, his family said that Richard had 'a heart as big as his smile', and helped inspire generations with spirit, humility, and love.

"Richard was so much more than a world champion", they said.

"To us he was simply 'Richard', our son. A loving father, grandfather, and brother, and a true friend to many.

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

"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.

Ricky Hatton pictured in March 2025, opening a new mental health wing at Crumpsall Hospital (Image - Nub News)

"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.

"It has been a source of great comfort to see just how many lives Richard touched, and how widely he was admired and respected.

"At this time, we kindly ask for privacy as we come to terms with life without him. In the days and weeks ahead, we will take strength from one another and from the knowledge that Richard's legacy — both in boxing and as a man — will continue to live on.

"Richard's memory will forever remain in our hearts, in the hearts of his fans, and in the sport he loved so dearly."

Police said there were no suspicious circumstances around Hatton's death.

Born in Stockport, Hatton went on to hold multiple world championships in the welterweight and light welterweight divisions.

After he retired from the sport, he was known for his support and campaigning for mental health causes.

In March this year, he opened a new mental health wing at Crumpsall Hospital.

~

Free from clickbait, Stockport Nub News is a quality online newspaper for our town.

To get our top stories in your inbox each week, subscribe to our free weekly newsletter HERE.

Please consider following Stockport Nub News on Facebook or X