British Boxing Legend Ricky Hatton Dies at 46, Tributes Pour In from Sports Icons and Fans Worldwide

Ricky Hatton, the British boxing hero so nicknamed "The Hitman," has died at the age of 46. He was found at his residence in Hyde, Greater Manchester, early Sunday morning. Authorities assured there were no suspicious incidents involving his death.

Hatton's career spanned over 15 years, where he was a world title holder in light-welterweight and welterweight divisions. His fight-hard image and humble nature drew global respect, where he battled the likes of Floyd Mayweather Jr. and Manny Pacquiao.

Apart from the ring, Hatton was open about his depression and then issues with mental health, before eventually coaching, leading Zhanat Zhakiyanov to claim a world bantamweight title in 2017. He had only recently announced that he planned to return to the ring in December for a Dubai fight.

Tributes were paid from across the sporting world. Manchester City player Phil Foden stated that he was devastated, describing Hatton's unwavering commitment to the club. Roy Keane has called him "a warrior," and Micah Richards has described him as "a man of the people.".

Hatton's legacy is etched not only in the annals of boxing history but in the hearts of his fans who admired his grit, integrity, and charisma. His passing marks the end of an era in British boxing as he leaves behind a legacy that will inspire generations to come.