SWEENEY
Claire

Claire’s Heartfelt Farewell Claire Sweeney has paid a moving tribute to her former partner Ricky Hatton, remembering the late boxing icon as “the people’s champ” following his sudden death at the age of 46. The shock news of Hatton’s passing broke on Sunday when he was found at his home in Hyde, Greater Manchester. Police confirmed that a body had been discovered and that the death was not being treated as suspicious. Hatton’s family later issued a statement through Greater Manchester Police, describing him as their “beloved son Richard” and thanking the public for the outpouring of love. They said it was a source of comfort to see how many lives the former world champion had touched during his career and beyond. Claire, who shared both a personal and professional connection with Hatton, has now spoken for the first time. The actress and television personality, who became romantically involved with Hatton after the pair appeared together on Dancing on Ice in 2024, said: “[cite=1726]Ricky, you were the people’s champ. We adored and cherished you. Love you always.[/cite]” She accompanied her words with a heartfelt video montage of their time together, set to Elvis Presley’s If I Can Dream. Claire and Ricky’s romance grew after two decades of friendship, sparked when they reunited on Dancing on Ice in 2024. They shared holidays and nights out before parting amicably later that year, with Claire saying they had simply gone from friends to partners and back to friends again. Hatton’s death has left a deep void in the boxing community. His long-serving manager and confidant, Paul Speak — known affectionately as “Speaky” — discovered the boxer’s body after becoming worried when he failed to attend a scheduled event. Speak had been by Hatton’s side for more than 25 years, guiding his commercial career and supporting him personally, and tributes have acknowledged the enormity of his loss. Friends and fellow fighters have remembered Hatton for his fearless style, magnetic personality, and the pride he brought to Manchester. Fans also shared memories of his greatest nights, including his legendary bouts in Las Vegas. Born in Stockport, he was celebrated not just for his victories but for his humility and humour, and even at 46 he remained tied to the sport, with a comeback fight planned in Dubai later this year.