Ricky Hatton

The Hitman — Britain's most beloved boxer of the 2000s and a two-weight world champion whose fighting style, personality and connection with his massive travelling support made him one of sport's great crowd-pullers. Ricky Hatton's aggressive, body-punch-heavy style earned him victories over Kostya Tszyu, Carlos Baldomir and Luis Collazo that confirmed world-class quality. His two defeats — to Floyd Mayweather in 2007 and Manny Pacquiao in 2009 — came against the two best pound-for-pound fighters of the era. His subsequent battles with depression and addiction, which he has discussed openly, form a second story as significant as the first.

Boxing is one of the most demanding disciplines in sport, requiring power, speed, technical craft and the extraordinary personal courage to compete at elite level. Career highlights included WBA Welterweight Champion, IBF Light Welterweight Champion, 45-3 record. What consistently distinguished Ricky was the ability to perform at the highest level over many seasons — competing with the very best while maintaining exceptional standards throughout a long career in boxing. Ricky's career stands as a testament to the dedication and competitive focus that sustained excellence in boxing demands across many years at the top. Competing at the highest level in boxing over an extended period demands outstanding physical gifts and the mental resilience to overcome setbacks — something Ricky Hatton demonstrated consistently throughout. The dedication required to perform consistently in boxing at international level defined every aspect of Ricky Hatton's approach to the sport.

Aggressive pressure fighter with devastating body shots

One of Britain's most popular boxers who brought huge crowds

• WBA Welterweight Champion
• IBF Light Welterweight Champion
• 45-3 record