By Olivia Wheeler
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Claire Sweeney was supported by her Coronation Street co-stars as she paid tribute to her ex Ricky Hatton on Tuesday.
It comes as Greater Manchester Police said on Sunday that boxing legend, Ricky, 46, had been found dead at his home in Hyde, Greater Manchester. The police said there were no suspicious circumstances.
Claire, 54, and Ricky became romantically involved after they both competed on the 2024 series of Dancing on Ice, they had been friends for over two decades. However, the couple sadly split in December 2024 after eight months together.
Taking to Instagram on Tuesday, 16 September, to pay tribute to Ricky, Claire sweetly called the boxing legend ‘the people’s champ’.
The actress penned an emotional message alongside a montage of videos and photos from her time with Ricky with the Elvis Presley song ‘If I Can Dream’ playing over the top.
Claire penned: “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.”
Claire’s Coronation Street co-stars were quick to share their support as Elle Mulvaney, who plays Amy Barlow, commented heart emojis.
Samia Longchambon, who plays Maria Connor, wrote: “So so sorry Claire. All my love” while Lucy Fallon, who plays Bethany Platt, wrote: “so sorry claire x” with a heartbroken emoji.
Meanwhile, Catherine Tyldesley, who plays Eva Price, added: “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 xxx.”
After being friends for over two decades, 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.”
Sadly, the pair’s romance wasn’t to last as it was reported in December 2024 that their romance had come to an end after eight months together.
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.”
