Family of Ricky Hatton pay tribute to the man who ‘had a heart as big as his smile’

Monday, 15 September 2025 10:52

By David Murphy

The family of Ricky Hatton have paid tribute to him following his death over the weekend, describing the Manchester boxing legend as “so much more than a world champion”.

Greater Manchester Police confirmed officers were called to Bowlacre Road in Hyde on Saturday morning (14 September) after a member of the public raised the alarm. His death is not being treated as suspicious.

In a statement, the Hatton family said:

“It is with the heaviest of hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved son Richard. Richard was so much more than a world champion. 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.”

The family added that while the wider world will remember him as one of Britain’s greatest boxers, they will remember him as a devoted family man who remained down to earth despite global fame.

“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 Richard who never forgot where he came from.”

They said they had been moved by the “overwhelming outpouring of love and support” since the news broke, and that it had been a source of comfort to see how many lives he had touched.

“At this time, we kindly ask for privacy as we come to terms with life without him. Richard’s memory will forever remain in our hearts, in the hearts of his fans, and in the sport he loved so dearly.”

Do you have a story for us? Want to tell us about something happening in our Borough?

Let us know by emailing newsdesk@rochvalleyradio.com

All contact will be treated in confidence.

More from Local News

Little Mix star Jade Thirlwall visits town for album signing

Pop star Jade Thirlwall drew huge crowds in Bury on Saturday, 13 September, when she stopped by Wax and Beans record shop to sign copies of her debut solo album.
Black pudding flies as Ramsbottom’s world championships return in memory of Phil Taylor

Ramsbottom once again played host to the World Black Pudding Throwing Championships, with crowds filling Bridge Street to watch competitors from across the UK and as far afield as Japan, Peru, Canada and Australia.
Rochdale streets come alive as artists transform town in Common Walls festival

The heart of Rochdale has been transformed into a vast open-air gallery this week as local and international artists came together for the Common Walls International Mural Festival.
The town buzzing about it’s redevelopment plans

The idea to bring thousands of new homes, highly skilled jobs and the tram service to Middleton has created a buzz in the town.
New Good Night Out Guide launched to help keep Greater Manchester nightlife safe

A refreshed safety guide has been launched across Greater Manchester to help residents, students and visitors enjoy nights out with confidence.
Community invited to build giant wall of remembrance at Mill Gate for poppy appeal

Mill Gate Shopping Centre is inviting residents to help create a striking wall of remembrance this November, made entirely from handmade poppies in support of the Royal British Legion’s annual Poppy Appeal.
Therme Manchester construction begins on £450 million wellbeing resort

Work has officially begun on Therme Manchester, the £450 million wellness resort at TraffordCity set to become the UK’s largest of its kind when it opens in 2028.
New wedding venue planned for Middleton

A new banqueting hall and wedding venue could soon be coming to Middleton.
Norton Grange wedding coordinator named best in the North West

A Rochdale wedding coordinator has been crowned the best in the region at the 15th annual North West Wedding Awards.
Council party leader and former mayor ‘refutes any wrongdoing’ after being arrested on suspicion of fraud

A councillor who leads a hyper-local party has been arrested on suspicion of fraud.
Council bosses in Bury call for taxi drivers working out-of-area to be BANNED

Taxis working in Bury should be licensed in Bury, town hall bosses have told a government inquiry.
Teenager wins first race just weeks after horror crash ends her season

A teenage stockcar racer from Whitworth has defied the odds to claim her first race win, just weeks after a devastating crash left her hospitalised and her car written off.