Amir Khan urges the legacy of Ricky Hatton, the renowned British boxing icon, not to be forgotten following his tragic passing at home. Hatton, aged 46, achieved significant success in his career, securing the world champion title in 2005 and later unifying the light-welterweight division. Despite facing defeats against boxing legends like Floyd Mayweather and Manny Pacquiao, Hatton’s popularity soared, drawing massive crowds to his fights in Las Vegas.
Throughout his career, Hatton grappled with mental health challenges, exacerbated by his heartbreaking loss to Pacquiao in 2009. Khan, in a heartfelt social media message, emphasized the importance of addressing mental health struggles openly and seeking help when needed. He praised Hatton for his contributions to the sport and encouraged others facing similar battles to speak up and support each other.
Known for his engaging fighting style, Hatton held world titles in multiple weight classes and captivated audiences worldwide. His relatable personality resonated with fans, as he candidly shared his post-retirement mental health struggles and eventual triumph over personal hardships. Transitioning to coaching, Hatton guided Zhanat Zhakiyanov to a world bantamweight championship in 2017.
Despite announcing a comeback bout scheduled for December in Dubai against Eisa Al Dah, Hatton’s untimely demise has left a void in the boxing community. His enduring impact on the sport and his advocacy for mental health awareness will be cherished by fans and fellow athletes alike.
