Former Coronation Street action Will Mellor has paid an emotional tribute to his friend and fellow Manchester star Ricky Hatton after his death aged 46

Will Mellor has paid a touching tribute to his friend Ricky Hatton. The former boxer was tragically found dead at his home on Sunday aged 46.

Now Two Pints actor Will, who is also from Manchester like the sports icon, has taken to social media to share his condolences. Boxing fan Will, 49, posted a black-and-white image of Ricky holding his world champion belts on his Twitter /X account.

The photo had the words RIP Ricky in sky blue at the bottom, marking his love for Manchester City. Alongside the upload, Will said:”I’m absolutely devastated to hear about my good friend Ricky Hatton!! He was the real people’s champion but his biggest battle was his mental health! May you rest in peace mate. #RIPRickyHatton #rip #mentalhealth.”


Will Mellor was a friend and fan of Ricky Hatton(Image: Getty Images for the NTA’s)


Ricky Hatton has died at the age of 46(Image: Getty Images)

Rickys’ cause of death is not yet known, but police are not treating it as suspicious. Hatton, who would have celebrated his 47th birthday in October, had candidly spoken about his battles with mental health issues and drug addiction in the past.

Throughout his illustrious boxing career, he won a number of world championships. He was also successful in winning UK titles, and was honoured as Fighter of the Year in 2015.

In 2022, Ricky joined Will and his pal Ralf Little on their Two Pints with Will and Ralf podcast for a chat at his home. Will also featured in a biography about the popular pugilist in 2007. The documentary, titled Ricky Hatton – A Life Story, saw a number of the sports star’s celebrity fans provide commentary.

Will joined thousands of gutted fans and followers in paying tribute after they were stunned by the devastating news. Other celebrities to pay tribute was former Good Morning Britain presenter Piers Morgan.

Piers posted on Instagram saying: “BREAKING NEWS: RIP Ricky ‘The Hitman’ Hatton, 46. Found dead at his home in Manchester, police say no suspicious circumstances. What incredibly sad news about one of Britain’s greatest boxers, who held multiple world titles.”

A number of his famous followers paid their respects in the comments section, including sports stars Robbie Keane and Frankie Dettori. Reporter Kirsty Gallacher also responded: “Omg how sad.”

And also on Instagram David Beckham also shared a snap of Ricky with his arm held high after a boxing victory. On his Stories, David wrote: “Ricky was one of a kind.. Just Heartbreaking,” alongside a blue heart emoji.

He followed it up by sharing more shots of Ricky in action, saying: “Ricky was special in many way… Loved by his fans.”

And then, he sahred a quote from Ricky alongside a broken heart emoji. It read: “As long as I’ve got the love of the fans, that means everything to me.”