Claire Sweeney has shared new memories of Ricky Hatton, saying the former world champion became unusually reflective in the months before his death at age 46.
The comments come in connection with a tribute book by Adam Smith titled Ricky Hatton: The Light That Never Goes Out, which looks back on Hatton’s life and career after his Ricky Hatton death on September 14, 2025. Hatton was found unresponsive in his home and later died at 46.
A personal view of Hatton’s final months
Sweeney, who began a romance with Hatton in early 2024, said the pair stayed close even after they split in December 2024. “I miss the laughter, even after we split, we were great pals,” she said. “I was blessed to be part of his life.”
She also said that while Hatton had his “deep moments,” the biggest change she noticed was that he became “unusually reflective.” According to Sweeney, he “always had so much time for people,” and was “the joker” in the relationship.
Sweeney said their time together was often simple and domestic. “My happiest time was when I would come home from filming Corrie and we would cook a nice, healthy meal. Not naughty food. I even introduced him to an air fryer and it changed his life!” she said. She added that Hatton enjoyed picking boxing films for home cinema nights and that “he was so normal,” even as she “saw his vulnerabilities.”
Remembering Hatton as a father and a friend
Sweeney also spoke about Hatton’s family side, saying, “He was such a good dad and I have a son so I understood. Ricky introduced me to his great mates. We spoke all the time.” She added, “He was extreme, but he was wonderful. I loved being with all his mates at the pub on the estate or having a sing-song at home. So much laughter. He made me laugh so much.”
Hatton’s personal life had already been widely discussed in the years before his death. He had a son, Campbell, with a former girlfriend in 2001, became engaged to Jennifer Dooley on Valentine's Day in 2009, and separated from Dooley in 2016. The article also notes that Hatton previously struggled with alcoholism and substance abuse during his relationship with Dooley.
The new detail from Sweeney does not change the broader picture of Hatton’s life, but it does add a first-hand glimpse into how he was seen by someone close to him in his final months. For readers following the story of his death, it is another reminder that the boxer was remembered not only for his career in the ring, but also for the humor, warmth and vulnerability people around him saw every day.
