Ricky Hatton was plotting a return to the squared circle in December for a professional boxing match against Eisa Al Dah in Dubai. But then the news dropped. “With deep sadness, the WBA mourns the passing of Ricky ‘The Hitman’ Hatton,” the World Boxing Association announced. “A true champion, an indomitable spirit, and a legend of the sport. Your legacy will live on in every fight and in the hearts of boxing fans around the world.” 

The Greater Manchester Police have since confirmed that the 46-year-old’s body was found in his home in Hyde, England, revealing no foul play was involved. Prayers and wishes came rushing in upon hearing about Hatton’s sudden and shocking death. His family even released an official statement through the authorities, but one voice was silent until some hours ago—Campbell Hatton, Ricky Hatton’s son, who followed his father into boxing. 

Ricky Hatton leaves his son heartbroken

In his first statement since his father’s passing, Campbell Hatton broke his silence on social media on Tuesday. Sharing a series of pictures and videos of himself with Ricky Hatton, the 24-year-old reflected on their time together. Alongside the post, he wrote, “Heartbroken isn’t the word. Everybody has always said I was your double, and never a truer word said.”

Campbell had once hoped to follow in his father’s legendary footsteps. He made his professional debut in 2021 but retired earlier this year. Regardless, his tribute was filled with love and admiration, as he reminisced about the bond they shared. “Looked up to you in every aspect of life. Can’t explain how much I’m going to miss the laughs we had and all the good times, which I will remember forever. Just can’t believe we won’t have anymore. Love you dad.”

Ricky Hatton enjoyed a 15-year-long career, compiling an incredible 45-3 record and capturing world titles at super lightweight and welterweight before retiring in 2012. Campbell, who began his career with promise, stepped away from the sport after back-to-back defeats to James Flint in 2024. Following his heartfelt post on social media, an outpouring of condolences flooded the post from other boxers and promoters. 

Former promoter and Conor McGregor join Campbell Hatton 

Among the horde of well-wishers, Conor McGregor showed his support for Campbell. “Here for you, brother! 💙🙏,” he commented on the post. A couple of days ago, he even shared a picture on his Instagram account of himself and Ricky Hatton from when they crossed paths in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, over a year ago. “Rest in Peace Ricky Hatton!” he had written previously.

Meanwhile, Campbell Hatton’s former promoter, Eddie Hearn of Matchroom Boxing, also showed his support. “So sorry for your loss, mate. Your dad is a special man. Stay strong,” Hearn commented on the post. Hearn started promoting Campbell in December 2020, when Hatton signed a multi-fight promotional deal with Hearn’s Matchroom Boxing as he transitioned to professional boxing.

Other boxers, including Leigh Wood, Shannon Courtenay, Jack Catterall, and others, also paid their respects. “We’re all here for you, Campbell,” Wood wrote. “Thinking of you, Campbell, sending you lots of love and prayers,” Courtenay commented. “Sending love, mate,” Catterall wrote. “Love to you, brother,” John Warrington commented. 

Meanwhile, Michelle Joy Phelps added, “Sending you and your family prayers.” Frazer Clarke commented, “Sending love, mate.” Liam Smith wrote, “Thinking of you, mate. What a man he was.” The likes of Billy Joe Saunders and Skye Nickolson shared their thoughts through emojis. “❤️❤️❤️,” Saunders wrote, while Nicolson wrote, “💔❤️🙏.”

It’s never easy losing a loved one, but at least Campbell Hatton has all the fans and the rest of the boxing world beside him for support. Feel free to share your thoughts on Ricky Hatton in the comments below!