Ricky Hatton‘s family shared a statement. The boxing legend passed away two days ago at his home in Greater Manchester. Condolences and tributes poured in from across the globe. Though his career spanned just over a decade, Hatton, who would have turned 47 in October, became one of Great Britain’s biggest boxing stars. Beyond his achievements in the ring, his friendly and down-to-earth nature made him a beloved figure nationwide and beyond.

Ricky Hatton faced trials and tribulations throughout his life. Yet he remained a true champion both inside and outside the ring. To understand what Hatton believed in and stood for, one only needs to look at his message to a 10-year-old boy who faced bullying at school. Hitman Hatton’s message, sent just a week before his passing, melted many hearts, including those of well-known names in the boxing world.

Boxing legend Ricky Hatton lifts the spirits of a youngster

iFL TV’s Kugan Cassius shared the clip on Instagram. It showed Ricky Hatton speaking directly to Louie, who was bullied at school. The youngster enrolled at a boxing gym to gain confidence. Hatton acknowledged his effort. “Hey Louie, Ricky ‘The Hitman’ Hatton here,” said the departed legend. “Believe you’ve been having a tough time at school by a couple of bullies. Don’t worry about it, my mate. That’s nothing new,” he added, revealing that he had faced similar problems at school.

Hatton praised young Louie for taking the right step. “But you’ve done the right thing taking up boxing, not so you can get back on him and beat him up. But boxing gives you confidence. And the minute these bullies see you’ve got a little bit of confidence, they leave you alone. So you’ve done the right thing, mate,” he concluded, wishing Louie the best.

The post has generated a wave of reactions. Tony Bellew and Daniel Dubois struggled to contain their feelings. Bellew posted tearful emojis: “😢😢💙😢😢,” while Dubois shared a broken heart: “💔.” The post follows his family’s official statement. “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,” it began.

The statement described Ricky Hatton as a loving father, grandfather, brother, and true friend to many.

Remembering Ricky Hatton: More than a champion

Fans will remember him as one of boxing’s greatest champions, someone who fought with passion and lived with humility, inspiring generations. “But beyond the titles, the nights to remember, and the roar of the crowd, he remained the same down-to-earth Richard who never forgot where he came from,” the family added.

The family spoke of their immeasurable loss, saying no words could capture their pain. They expressed how moved and comforted they felt by the outpouring of love and respect from fans and the boxing community. They asked for only one thing: privacy. “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.”

Highlighting that Ricky Hatton was more than a boxing legend, the Mayor of Greater Manchester noted his character, generosity, and support of community causes. “We will find a way of honoring him properly. Rest in peace, Champ.”

Ricky Hatton’s passing has left a deep void for many. Everyone is trying to come to terms with the loss. At times like this, looking at how Hatton inspired a young boy, among many other instances, reminds people of the kind of man he was.

Please feel free to share your messages and tributes in the comments below.