Boxing great Ricky Hatton has died at the age of 46 after being found at his home in Greater Manchester on Sunday.
Just days before his passing, Hatton had shared a video of himself training on a treadmill as he prepared for a planned comeback fight.
Posting to Instagram, he wrote: "Evening run in the bag. Don’t your worry about that our kid."
Hatton had been lining up a return to the ring against Eisa Al Dah before the end of 2025, more than a decade after his last professional bout.
Speaking earlier about the opportunity, he said in a post on Instagram: "I always said after my exhibition a couple of years ago against Marco if another opportunity came up I'd always look at it and weigh up the pros and cons. I have done and this is a good and sensible fight for me."
The man known as “The Hitman” was due to celebrate his 47th birthday in October. His death has sent shockwaves through the boxing community and beyond, with fans and fellow fighters paying tribute.
Trainer Adam Booth wrote: "Truly heartbreaking. Ricky rest your soul in peace my friend. I hope your spirit can now truly feel the love and admiration that has always existed for you!"
Former world champion Amir Khan shared an emotional message on social media, writing: "Today we lost not only one of Britain’s greatest boxers, but a friend, a mentor, a warrior, Ricky Hatton. As fighters, we tell ourselves we’re strong — we train, we sweat, we take hits, we get up. But sometimes the hardest fight happens in silence, in the mind.
"Mental health isn’t weakness. It’s part of being human. And we must talk about it. We must reach out. We must lean on each other.
"Ricky, thank you for everything. For your fights, your moments of glory, your grit. Thank you for pushing us, showing us what’s possible.
"To everyone reading this: if you’re hurting or struggling, you are not alone. Talk. Reach out. Because we need more light, more compassion, more understanding. Rest well, Ricky. You’ll always have your place in the ring of our memories"
Heavyweight champion Tyson Fury also paid tribute, posting: "Rip to the legend @rickyhatton may he rip. There will only ever be 1 Ricky hatton. can't believe this so young."
Former England striker Michael Owen added: "RIP Ricky Hatton. What a guy. And what a fighter. Incredibly sad news."
Hatton, who won multiple world titles across two weight classes, was one of Britain’s most popular boxers during his career.
Known for his passionate fanbase and relentless fighting style, he became a hero to many and continued to inspire even after stepping away from professional competition.