By Amy Denman,Catriona Rigney,Lucy Needham
Copyright ok
Ricky Hatton’s ex-girlfriend Claire Sweeney has spoken out for the first time following the boxing legend’s tragic death.
News of Ricky’s death shocked fans on Sunday, with the star sadly found dead at his home at the age of 46. Greater Manchester Police said he had been found dead at his home in Hyde, Greater Manchester. The police said there were no suspicious circumstances.
Tributes have been paid to the much-loved sportsman in the wake of his passing, with Ricky’s former girlfriend Claire now paying her own emotional tribute, saying she “adored and cherished” her friend and ex-boyfriend.
The Coronation Street star wrote on Instagram: “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 [his manager Paul Speak] 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.”
Alongside her message, Claire shared a collection of videos and photographs from her time with Ricky, set to Elvis’s track If I can dream.
The soap star’s pals have reached out to share their sympathies, reports the Mirror. Catherine Tyldesley, who portrays Eva Price in Coronation Street, penned: “I’m so deeply sorry my love. A true legend gone too soon. God bless and love to him and his family/friends. Love you xx” Meanwhile, former EastEnders actress Rita Simons replied with a simple red love heart.
Following more than two decades of friendship, Ricky and Claire became romantically involved after they both competed on the 2024 series of Dancing on Ice.
Claire gushed at the time: “I’ve known him for 25 years or so, we kind of always passed each other during events…. Do you know what? He makes me laugh, that’s it.” While Ricky described it as a ‘great story’ after they went from friends to lovers.
During their romance, they were photographed on date nights, holidays to Mallorca and a double date with Ricky’s former skating partner Robin Johnstone an her husband Andy Buchanan.
However, the pair split up before Christmas 2024 but remained friends. Claire said about her and Ricky’s relationship following their split: “We’re still friends. We were friends, we dated then we’re friends again. It’s all good.”
Claire’s tribute comes after Ricky’s family say they feel an “immeasurable” sense of loss after his death but have been “deeply moved” by the outpouring of love and support towards him.
