Boxing champion Ricky Hatton dies aged 46

msn - British boxing legend Ricky Hatton has died aged 46, just weeks after announcing his return to the ring.

The former world champion was found dead at his home in Greater Manchester. His death is not being treated as suspicious, police said.

During his career between 1997 and 2012, Hatton won multiple titles in the light welterweight and welterweight divisions. He has been lauded as one of the most beloved British boxers of all time.

He was inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame as part of the class of 2024.

A Greater Manchester Police spokesperson said: “Officers were called by a member of the public to attend Bowlacre Road, Hyde, Tameside, at 6:45am today where they found the body of a 46-year-old man.

“There are not currently believed to be any suspicious circumstances.”

In July this year, Hatton said he was coming out of retirement for a December bout in Dubai, 13 years after his last professional match.

He had previously spoken publicly about his struggles with mental health and drug addiction, and had survived suicide attempts in the past.

Tributes have been paid from Hatton’s colleagues in the sport and elsewhere.

Former boxer Amir Khan said Hatton was “not only one of Britain’s greatest boxers, but a friend, a mentor, a warrior”.

“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.”

Professional darts player James Wade said: “It is with great sadness to hear the news a dear friend has passed. Ricky Hatton a great friend and legendary boxer! Our thoughts are with your family and friends during this difficult time. Rest in peace Ricky.”

Broadcaster Piers Morgan described his death as “incredibly sad news”.

Former footballer Michael Owen echoed Morgan’s sentiments. “RIP Ricky Hatton”, he wrote on social media, “What a guy. And what a fighter”.