British boxing legend Ricky Hatton has died at the age of 46, just weeks after announcing a shock return to the ring.

Hatton made a guest appearance in WWE in 2009 as a guest host for Monday Night Raw and also participated in a match, winning his only wrestling bout by knockout against Chavo Guerrero. His appearance was partly due to his son, Campbell, being a fan of WWE

The former world champion was found at his home in Greater Manchester this morning. Police confirmed his death is not being treated as suspicious.

“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,” a Greater Manchester Police spokesperson said.

Concerns had been raised last night when Hatton failed to attend an event featuring one of his fighters. He was set to step back into the ring in December for a comeback fight in Dubai, and had posted training footage on social media only two days ago.

Hatton won 45 of his 48 professional bouts across a glittering 15-year career, capturing multiple world titles and memorable wins over Kostya Tszyu and Jose Luis Castillo. He also shared the ring with Floyd Mayweather and Manny Pacquiao in some of the sport’s biggest nights.

Away from boxing, Hatton battled mental health struggles and addiction, speaking openly about his darkest moments in a 2023 documentary. Despite personal challenges, he became a respected trainer, guiding Zhanat Zhakiyanov to a world bantamweight crown in 2017.

The proud Manchester City fan was expected at today’s derby at the Etihad Stadium. Tributes have poured in from across the sporting world.

Amir Khan wrote: “Today we lost not only one of Britain’s greatest boxers, but a friend, a mentor, a warrior, Ricky Hatton.”

Anthony Fowler added: “Feel sick. RIP Ricky Hatton.”

Piers Morgan said: “RIP Ricky ‘The Hitman’ Hatton, 46. Found dead at his home in Manchester, police say no suspicious circumstances. What incredibly sad news.”

Sacha Lord, Manchester’s nighttime economy adviser, called him “a gentle giant and absolute legend” and urged for a minute’s silence at the derby in his honour.

Hatton leaves behind his son Campbell, who stepped away from boxing earlier this year, and daughters Millie and Fearne.