Ricky Hatton’s former girlfriend Claire Sweeney has broken her silence following the announcement of the boxing legend’s passing. News of Ricky’s death stunned fans on Sunday, with the star discovered deceased at his residence at the age of 46. Greater Manchester Police confirmed a body had been discovered at Hatton’s property and that the death was not being treated as suspicious. Supporters, celebrity followers and Ricky’s colleagues in the sport expressed their condolences in an outpouring of tributes to honour the beloved athlete. Ricky’s ex-partner Claire has now shared her own heartfelt message as she disclosed she required time to come to terms with her grief.
Posting on Instagram Claire wrote: “I’ve needed a few days to process the devastating news about my dear friend Ricky. My thoughts are with his family especially his children Campbell, Millie Fearne and Lyla, his granddaughter. To them, Speaky and to all his friends who loved him so deeply and for so many years I send you my deepest sympathy. Ricky, you were the people’s champ. We adored and cherished you. Love you always,” she said.
Claire paired her message with a collection of clips and photographs from her relationship with Ricky, set to the Elvis song If I can dream. Friends of the soap star extended their heartfelt condolences.
Catherine Tyldesley, known for her role as Eva Price in Coronation Street, penned: “I’m so deeply sorry my love. A true legend gone too soon. God bless and love to him and his family/friends. Love you xx”. Meanwhile, former EastEnders actress Rita Simons responded with a simple red heart emoji.
After being pals for more than 20 years, Ricky and Claire’s friendship blossomed into romance when they both took part in the 2024 series of Dancing on Ice.
Claire couldn’t help but gush at the time: “I’ve known him for 25 years or so, we kind of always passed each other during events…. Do you know what? He makes me laugh, that’s it.”
Ricky described their transition from friends to lovers as a “great story”.
The couple seemed perfectly suited, spotted enjoying cosy pub dates, holidays in Mallorca and even a double date with Ricky’s former skating partner Robin Johnstone and her husband Andy Buchanan.
Unfortunately, their love story was short-lived as reports emerged in December 2024 that they had called it quits after eight months together.
Reflecting on their relationship post-split, Claire said: “We’re still friends. We were friends, we dated then we’re friends again. It’s all good.”