Claire Sweeney and Ricky Hatton began secretly dating after reuniting on Dancing On Ice in 2024. Although they had known each other for 25 years, their friendship turned romantic during their time on the show.
Ricky was eliminated in the first week, but he and Claire stayed in touch, and their connection deepened. Claire lasted until week three, and the pair kept their relationship under wraps at first, even enjoying a private holiday in Tenerife before going public.
However, the pair eventually ended their romance but remained on good terms. Claire explained that they were friends before dating, and now they’ve gone back to being friends, saying, “We’re still friends, we were friends, we dated and now we’re friends again. It’s all good.”
Ricky had previously split from Jennifer Dooley, the mother of his children Millie and Fearne, in 2016 after being together for 11 years.
A police statement confirmed officers discovered Ricky Hatton’s body early on Sunday. The former boxing legend died at age 46. He hadn’t fought professionally since 2012, but had been training for a comeback slated for December.
Hatton was due to attend that day’s Manchester derby at the Etihad Stadium, where he had booked a table in hospitality. A minute’s applause is expected in his honor.
Hatton, whose professional record stood at 45 wins and 3 losses, was found dead at his home in Hyde, Greater Manchester.
Police confirmed that Ricky Hatton’s death is not being treated as suspicious. A statement said officers were called to Bowlacre Road in Hyde, Tameside at 6:45am, where they found the body of a 46-year-old man. Authorities stated there are no suspicious circumstances surrounding his death.
Tributes have been pouring in from the boxing world and beyond. Tyson Fury posted on Instagram: “RIP to the legend @rickyhatton. May he rest in peace. There will only ever be one Ricky Hatton. Can’t believe this — so young.”
Amir Khan also shared a heartfelt message, saying: “Today we lost not only one of Britain’s greatest boxers, but a friend, a mentor, a warrior — Ricky Hatton.”
As fighters, we often believe our strength lies in physical endurance — in training hard, taking hits, and always getting back up. But sometimes, the toughest battles happen silently, within the mind. Mental health is not a weakness; it’s part of being human. And it’s something we need to talk about openly. We need to support one another and be there when it matters most.
Ricky, thank you — for your courage, your victories, and the determination you showed in and out of the ring. You inspired so many by proving what could be achieved through heart and grit.
To anyone reading this who may be struggling: you are not alone. Speak up. Reach out. Because what the world needs more of is empathy, compassion, and understanding.
Rest in peace, Ricky. You’ll forever hold a place in the ring of our memories.