Amir Khan has urged that the legacy of Ricky Hatton’s passing should not be forgotten after the renowned British boxing icon was discovered deceased at his residence.
Hatton, aged 46, gained immense popularity in the UK during the pinnacle of his career, achieving the world champion title in 2005 and later unifying the light-welterweight division. He attracted a large following to Las Vegas, where he faced defeats against boxing greats Floyd Mayweather and Manny Pacquiao.
Struggling with mental health challenges, especially after a tough loss to Pacquiao in 2009, Hatton faced personal battles throughout his career. Khan has taken to social media to encourage individuals facing similar struggles to seek help.
In a heartfelt tribute, Khan expressed gratitude for Hatton’s contributions to boxing and emphasized the importance of addressing mental health issues openly and seeking support. Hatton’s impact on the sport was significant, winning titles in different weight classes and captivating audiences with his aggressive fighting style.
Known for his down-to-earth persona, Hatton was transparent about his mental health battles post-retirement. Despite personal challenges, he transitioned into a successful coaching role, guiding Zhanat Zhakiyanov to a world bantamweight title victory in 2017.
Although Hatton had announced a comeback fight in Dubai scheduled for December against Eisa Al Dah, his passing has left a void in the boxing community. His resilience and achievements will always be remembered, highlighting the importance of mental well-being and seeking help when needed.
