British boxing idol Ricky Hatton died at the age of 46, triggering a cross-sports tribute.

Greater Manchester Police Department in the UK confirmed that former boxing world champion Ricky Hatton died at the age of 46.

Hatton was known as the “killer” at his home in Hyde near Manchester early Sunday morning. Police said: “At 6:45 am today (05:45 GMT), a public called Bowlacre Road, Tansedhead, where they found the body of a 46-year-old man. There is no suspicious situation yet.”

Manchester-born Fighter became one of the most famous boxers in the UK, winning the world championship in lightweight and middleweight. In his 15-year career, he won 45 victories from 48 games before retiring in 2012.

Hatton’s death prompted the contributions of the sports community.

Former England and Manchester United midfielder David Beckham posted on Instagram: “Rickey is a kind. Heartbreaking.” Heavyweight champion Tyson Fury wrote: “Legend Ricky Hatton. There is only one Ricky Hatton.

Football numbers also respect Manchester City’s lifelong supporters. The Atihad Stadium received a minute of applause before Sunday’s Premier League match against Manchester United, and fans shouted his name.

City manager Pep Guardiola described him as “the real champion” and “a part of a human urban family.” Wayne Rooney, who once brought Hatton’s belt into the ring, said on X that he “had suffered destruction”, calling him “a legend, a warrior and a great man.”

Hatton’s career is memorable with his wins against Kostya Tszyu and Jose Luis Castillo, and his only failure was on the boxing giant Floyd Mayweather and Manny Pacquiao.

Hatton is still close to the sport in recent years. He made a comeback in 2012, fighting at an exhibition with Marco Antonio Barrera in 2022, and announced plans to face Eisa Al Dah in Dubai earlier this year. He also spoke openly about his struggle with depression and introduced his personal struggles and mental health in the 2023 documentary Hatton.