By Elaine Blackburne

Copyright walesonline

Tragic boxer Ricky Hatton’s ex-girfriend Claire Sweeney has broken her silence after the death of the star. The Coronation Street actress said she would always love the 46-year-old who was found dead on Sunday. Posting on Instagram, to the Elvis song “If I can dream” alongside a string of photographs and videos from their time together, she wrote: “I’ve needed a few days to process the devastating news about my dear friend Ricky. My thoughts are with his family especially his children Campbell, Millie Fearne and Lyla, his granddaughter. “To them, Speaky and to all his friends who loved him so deeply and for so many years I send you my deepest sympathy. Ricky, you were the people’s champ. “We adored and cherished you. Love you always.” The boxer was found at his home on Sunday with police saying the death is “not being treated as suspicious”. The two had known each other for about 25 years before becoming romantically involved through time spent together during the skating competition. She said at the timer: “He makes me laugh”. They were spotted on a series of dates including a holiday in Mallorca. But they split romantically in December 2024 however remained friends.