By Charlotte Smith

Copyright walesonline

Ricky Hatton’s family has issued a statement following the world champion boxer’s tragic passing, at the age of 46. The father-of-three was found dead at his Manchester home on Sunday, September 14. The boxer’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. Greater Manchester Police said on Sunday the 46-year-old had been found dead at his home in Hyde, Greater Manchester. The police said there were no suspicious circumstances. Tributes have been paid across sport and wider society towards Hatton, a former world welterweight champion. On Monday, September 15, his family issued a statement via Greater Manchester Police. “It is with the heaviest of hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved son Richard,” the statement began. “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. “To the wider world, Richard will always be remembered as one of boxing’s greatest champions — a man who gave everything inside the ring and wore his heart on his sleeve outside of it.” Manchester officials have said the city is committed to properly honouring Ricky Hatton, as stated by its mayor, Andy Burnham. On Sunday, Greater Manchester Police confirmed that Hatton, 46, was found deceased at his residence in Hyde. Authorities reported that there were no suspicious circumstances surrounding his death. The news of Hatton’s passing has elicited tributes from various corners of the sporting community, and Burnham mentioned that considerations will now be made on how the city can best commemorate his legacy. On X, wrote that it was “hard to take in” Hatton’s death. He said: “Ricky was much loved by so many in Greater Manchester. He was the kind of person who would always turn up for people, supporting so many causes. He made us smile and made us proud. We will find a way of honouring him properly. Rest in peace, Champ.” Hatton experienced what many consider the pinnacle of his career in his hometown, defeating Kostya Tszyu for the IBF welterweight title at the Manchester Arena in 2005. On Monday morning, tributes such as flowers and replica shirts of Hatton’s cherished Manchester City were placed outside his home in Hyde, as the community began to process the loss of one of its most celebrated sports figures. Another of Hatton’s opponents, Manny Pacquiao, offered his condolences. Pacquiao, who beat Hatton in 2009, posted on Instagram: “I am deeply saddened to hear about the passing of Ricky Hatton. He was not only a great fighter inside the ring but also a brave and kind man in life. “We shared unforgettable moments in boxing history and I will always honor the respect and sportsmanship he showed. Ricky fought bravely, not just in the ring, but in his journey through life. He truly had a good fight, and we are all blessed to have been part of his wonderful journey.” He continued: “My prayers and deepest condolences go out to the Hatton family and all his loved ones. May the Lord give you strength and comfort in this difficult time. May he rest in peace.” A minute’s applause was held before Sunday’s Manchester derby at the Etihad Stadium in memory of Hatton. City midfielder Phil Foden told Sky Sports before the match: “My heart obviously goes out to his family, at this hard time. “Obviously to hear the news just before a big game is devastating. I’m sure he would have been here today as well, supporting us. Today is for him and we’re going to try to get the win and do the best we can for him.”