Former British boxing world champion Ricky Hatton has sadly passed away at 46.

Authorities said the boxing legend’s body was found at his residence in Hyde on Sunday morning, as Greater Manchester Police are treating his death as non-suspicious.

A spokesperson for the police stated, “Officers were called by a member of the public to attend Bowlacre Road, Hyde, Tameside, at 6:45 a.m. today, where they found the body of a 46-year-old man. There are not currently believed to be any suspicious circumstances.”

The death of the 46-year-old is a significant one that shook the sports and boxing world, with colleagues and fans expressing their grief, leaving flowers and heartfelt messages at his home in Hyde.

Boxer Tyson Fury described Hatton as an inspiration to his generation and the present one.

Football legend Michael Owen described Hatton as a remarkable fighter and a good individual in a post on his X handle.

“RIP Ricky Hatton. What a guy. And what a fighter. Incredibly sad news,” he posted.

British Olympic medalist and two-time world professional boxing champ Amir Khan described the legend as “one of Britain’s greatest boxers,” a friend, mentor, and warrior.

Khan emphasised the need to talk openly about mental health and said Hatton’s legacy goes beyond his wins.

The “Hitman” was born on October 6, 1978, and made his way through the ropes as a boxing promoter and trainer.

He stepped into the ring and emerged victorious, winning multiple world championships in the super-lightweight and welterweight divisions during his boxing career, which lasted from 1997 to 2012.

In 2005, beat Kostya Tszyu to become a world champion at the MEN Arena in Manchester, where he was recognised as the best fighter in the division. He then defeated Carlos Maussa to unify the IBF and WBA titles.

Hatton made his welterweight debut the following year, claiming the WBA title by defeating Luis Collazo.

Hatton retired in 2011 but made a comeback in 2012, where he was beaten by Vyacheslav Senchenko. He was due to make a comeback later this year.

He had openly spoken about his challenges with mental health, alcohol, and substance abuse, admitting to depression and several suicide attempts.

Hatton is survived by his three children, Campbell Hatton, Millie Hatton, and Fearne Grace Hatton, despite a well-documented family rift.