Coronation Street star Claire Sweeney has paid tribute to Ricky Hatton in the wake of his death at the age of 46.
The boxing legend was found dead at his home in Greater Manchester in the early hours of Sunday morning.
Corrie star Claire, who dated Hatton for eight months following their stint on Dancing On Ice Together, has said that she ‘needed a few days’ to process the news before speaking out.
‘My thoughts are with his family especially his children Campbell, Millie Fearne and Lyla, his granddaughter,’ she wrote on Instagram alongside a heartfelt tribute video.
‘To them, Speaky and to all his friends who loved him so deeply and for so many years I send you my deepest sympathy. Ricky, you were the people’s champ. We adored and cherished you. Love you always.’
The Cassie Plummer star, who rose to fame on Brookside during the 90s, discussed her relationship with Ricky during an appearance on Lorraine last year.
‘I’ve known him for 25 years or so, we kind of always passed each other during events’, she said.
The star, who was part of last year’s Dancing on Ice alongside Ricky, added: ‘Do you know what? He makes me laugh, that’s it.
‘I first met him in La Manga in the early 2000’s, then we did Dance for Comic Relief together 2013, and then we met on Dancing on Ice and it’s great… He makes me laugh and we both like Only Fools and Horses, so what’s not to like!’
The pair reportedly split in December last year.
‘There has been no fallout between them. They decided they’re better off as pals and are no longer romantically together’, a source told the MailOnline at the time.
Hatton was one of the most successful and popular fighters of his generation, ending his 15-year professional career with 42 wins from 45 bouts.
‘He had a heart as big as his smile, and his kindness, humour and loyalty touched everyone who was lucky enough to know him,’ his family said in a statement.
‘As a family, our loss is immeasurable, and words cannot truly capture the pain we feel. Yet in the midst of our grief, we have been deeply moved by the overwhelming outpouring of love and support.
‘Richard’s memory will forever remain in our hearts, in the hearts of his fans, and in the sport he loved so dearly.
‘Richard was so much more than a world champion. To us he was simply “Richard”, our son. A loving father, grandfather, and brother, and a true friend to many.’
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