Coronation Street’s Claire Sweeney issues heartbreaking statement after ex-Ricky Hatton’s tragic death
Claire Sweeney has paid tribute following the death of her former partner, Ricky Hatton.
The former sportsman was found dead in his home on Sunday (September 14) at the age of 46. The death of Hatton is not being treated as suspicious by Greater Manchester Police.
A police spokesperson said on Sunday: “Officers were called by a member of the public to attend Bowlacre Road, Hyde, Tameside, at 6.45am today, where they found the body of a 46-year-old man. There are not currently believed to be any suspicious circumstances.”
The athlete was open about his mental health issues he endured upon his retirement from the ring. He announced in July that he would return to the ring in a professional bout in Dubai in December.
Last year, Ricky enjoyed an eight-month romance with Coronation Street star Claire after they were reacquainted during the 2024 series of Dancing on Ice, more than 20 years after they had met for the first time.
Following the tragic news of his passing, the actress said: “I’ve needed a few days to process the devastating news about my dear friend Ricky.
“My thoughts are with his family especially his children Campbell, Millie Fearne and Lyla, his granddaughter. To them, Speaky and to all his friends who loved him so deeply and for so many years I send you my deepest sympathy.”
Claire and Ricky enjoyed a whirlwind romance last year(Image: Getty Images for Co-op Live)
She added: “Ricky, you were the people’s champ. We adored and cherished you. Love you always.”
Claire and Ricky’s relationship first got tongues wagging about a relationship after being spotted on a series of pub dates, including in Stockport.
They then stepped out on the red carpet together for the first time in May 2024 at the first opening night of the £365m Co-op Live Arena in Manchester.
They both posted photos on their Instagram accounts after posing together at the press boards for celebs and VIPs at the new arena’s welcome event.
It wasn’t long after that when the new couple were then seen enjoying a sun-soaked holiday in Tenerife and recently headed back abroad and enjoyed a long weekend in Mallorca with his family.
But it was in December that it was reported Ricky and Claire had split. The breakup came before Christmas and asked about the split during a red carpet appearance, Claire told MailOnline: “I’m great – we’re still friends, we were friends, we dated and now we’re friends again. It’s all good!”