Ricky Hatton was more than just a champion inside the boxing ring. Known by fans as “The Hitman,” he built a reputation as one of the most loved fighters to come out of Britain. Born on October 6, 1978, in Stockport, England, Hatton rose from humble beginnings to become a two-division world champion and one of the highest-earning boxers of his generation. At the time of his passing on September 14, 2025, at age 46, Ricky Hatton’s net worth stood at an impressive $40 million. His journey was marked by grit, passion, and the unwavering support of his family and fans.
Early Life and Education
Ricky Hatton grew up on the Hattersley council estate in Hyde, raised by his parents Carol and Ray alongside his younger brother Matthew, who also became a professional boxer. The Hatton family had strong football roots, with both his father and grandfather playing for Rochdale. Ricky even trialed for a youth football team but soon found his true calling in boxing. Educated at Hattersley High School, he joined a local boxing club in Hyde. After leaving school, he briefly worked in the family carpet business before an accident cutting his fingers with a knife redirected him toward sales work.
Amateur Career Success
Hatton’s amateur boxing career was brief but decorated. He captured seven British titles and represented England at the 1996 AIBA Youth World Boxing Championships. Although his semifinal exit was clouded by controversy after it was revealed a judge accepted a bribe, the setback convinced Hatton to turn professional at just 18 years old.
Light Welterweight Dominance (1997–2006)
Ricky Hatton made his professional debut in 1997 with a TKO win over Colin McAuley. Just one fight later, he was boxing at Madison Square Garden. Over the following years, Hatton collected titles, first winning the WBO intercontinental light welterweight belt in 1999. By 2001, he had claimed the WBU title against Tony Pep, which he defended a record 15 times.
The highlight of his career came in 2005 when he shocked the boxing world by defeating Kostya Tszyu for the IBF, Ring, and lineal light welterweight titles. Later that year, he unified further by beating Carlos Maussa for the WBA title. His achievements earned him the 2005 Ring Magazine Fighter of the Year award, solidifying his status as one of the world’s best.
Move to Welterweight and Major Bouts
In 2006, Hatton stepped up to welterweight, beating Luis Collazo to claim the WBA title. A year later, he returned to light welterweight to defeat Juan Urango for the IBF and IBO titles and followed it up with a spectacular win against José Luis Castillo. However, late in 2007, he faced Floyd Mayweather Jr. in one of the biggest welterweight fights of the decade. Despite a strong start, Hatton was stopped in the tenth round, suffering his first professional defeat.
Later Career and Retirement
Hatton rebounded in 2008 with victories over Juan Lazcano and Paulie Malignaggi, defending his Ring and IBO titles. But in 2009, he faced Manny Pacquiao in a highly anticipated bout. Pacquiao knocked him out in the second round, delivering one of the most devastating defeats of Hatton’s career. This loss led him to temporarily retire.
After three years away, Hatton returned in 2012 against Vyacheslav Senchenko. Although he showed flashes of his old self, he was knocked out in the ninth round. Following this third professional loss, Hatton retired permanently at the age of 34.
Career Earnings and Net Worth
Throughout his career, Ricky Hatton earned an estimated $65 million in purses and bonuses. His highest payday came in 2009 against Manny Pacquiao, where he reportedly earned $20 million. Beyond the ring, endorsements and appearances added tens of millions more. By 2025, his net worth was estimated at $40 million, making him one of Britain’s richest boxing legends.
Life Outside the Ring
Ricky Hatton remained deeply connected to boxing even after retirement. He founded Hatton Promotions, training and promoting fighters such as Zhanat Zhakiyanov, Nathan Gorman, and Tommy Fury. He also launched his own talk show, “Ricky Speaks,” in 2008. A lifelong Manchester City supporter, Hatton’s love for football was just as strong as his passion for boxing.
Personal Life and Family
Hatton shared his life with his family, including his son Campbell, born from his relationship with Claire. Campbell followed his father’s path, becoming a professional boxer. Ricky later found companionship with Jennifer Dooley. At the time of his death at 46, his family and fans remembered him as both a fierce competitor and a warm-hearted figure outside the ring.
Legacy
Ricky Hatton will be remembered not only for his victories and titles but also for his resilience, charisma, and ability to connect with fans. With only three losses in a 15-year career and multiple world titles across divisions, he remains one of Britain’s greatest boxers. His legacy continues through his son Campbell and the fighters he mentored, ensuring the Hatton name stays alive in boxing for generations.
