Boxer Hatton, who passed away at 46, was preparing for a fight in Dubai: BBC

As the sporting world mourns the death of British boxing hero Ricky Hatton, it has emerged that the former two-division world champion was on track for a bout in Dubai this year.

- Rituraj Borkakoty

Hatton passed away at the age of 46, the World Boxing Association announced on Sunday.

The WBA led the tributes on social media with a heartfelt message on Instagram: “A true champion, an indomitable spirit and a legend of the sport. Your legacy will live on in every fight and in the hearts of boxing fans around the world.”

Hatton, who won 45 of his 48 bouts, was struggling with depression and alcohol abuse following his retirement from the sport in 2012.

But according to a BBC report, Hatton was aiming for a bout in Dubai this year.

“Hatton was still working in the sport up until his death at the age of 46. He even had a comeback bout lined up for Dubai in December,” the report said.