'A great man inside the ring and a wonderful man outside of it'

TRIBUTES from the world of boxing and beyond have poured in for former world champion

- By Stephen Beech

Ricky Hatton who was found dead yesterday aged 46.

Greater Manchester Police confirmed that a body was found at Hatton's home in Gee Cross, Hyde, yesterday morning and the death was not being treated as suspicious.

Devastated fans began leaving flowers and other tributes at the cordon outside the house shortly after the tragic news broke.

The Stockport-born fighter - nicknamed The Hitman held world titles at lightwelterweight and welterweight during his glittering career in the ring, winning 45 of his 48 bouts, 32 by knockout.

Hatton was named Fighter of the Year in 2015 and received the MBE for services to the sport in 2007.

But he had spoken openly about his struggles with mental health and drug addiction.

He survived suicide attempts and overcame a fallout with his family, but they made up after addressing his mental health issues.

Hatton was admitted to The Priory rehab facility in London in 2010 to tackle drinking and depression. He had been caught on camera apparently snorting lines of cocaine in a Manchester hotel room.

In July this year, Hatton announced he was coming out of boxing retirement for a bout in Dubai in December, 13 years on from his last professional match.

He said at the time: "I can't wait, I'm really looking forward to it." A shaven-headed Hatton had shared video footage online of him training in the days before his death. He had also been seen in Tenerife just a few days ago.