Ricky Hatton and Claire Sweeney were in a relationship for a short time before the former’s death, with the actress paying tribute to her ex
Boxing legend Ricky Hatton and actress Claire Sweeney enjoyed a brief romance before the fighter’s tragic passing. Following the boxer’s death, Sweeney, 54, has paid tribute to her former partner.
The ex-world champion was found dead at his home in September, aged 46. Hatton is set to be buried in Manchester on Friday, October 10, with a ceremony scheduled at Manchester Cathedral.
The relationship between Hatton and Sweeney captured public attention after the duo featured together on Dancing on Ice. The former Brookside actress and Hatton had been acquainted for decades, but romance only blossomed when they became participants on the ITV programme in 2024.
The pair were subsequently photographed enjoying nights out and holidays together. Though they called time on their romance later that year, the two maintained their friendship. Mirror Sport explores their relationship and how Hatton’s passing has affected Sweeney.
READ MORE: Ricky Hatton’s friend shed heartbreaking detail on boxer’s final hours before death at 46
On their relationship
Discussing her romance with the Coronation Street actress after they became a couple, Sweeney revealed to ITV’s Lorraine: “I’ve known Ricky for, like, 25 years. We always passed each other at events.”
She continued: “We did a TV show together. First of all I met him in the early 2000s, then we did Dance for Comic Relief together in 2013. Then met on Dancing on Ice and it’s great… He makes me laugh, and we both like Only Fools and Horses, so what’s not to like?”
Of Claire, Ricky said: “It’s amazing [to find] someone you’ve probably known for 25 years. I’ve been in relationships and she’s been in relationships. I’ve had my kids and she’s had her kids. And then 25 years later we found each other. It’s quite a nice story.”
In December 2024 it was reported that the couple had split. Asked about the separation, Sweeney told MailOnline: “I’m great – we’re still friends, we were friends, we dated and now we’re friends again. It’s all good.”
Before Hatton’s death
Hatton was due to take on UAE fighter Eisa Al Dah at middleweight on December 2 in Dubai. The former boxer was meant to jet out to a press conference to promote the fight, but was forced to stay home after picking up an eye injury at an Oasis gig in Cardiff.
Though he couldn’t make it in person, he joined via video link, saying: “I’m very much looking forward to it myself, to be honest with you. What you’re trying to do there for boxing in Dubai is fantastic.” Showing her support, Sweeney posted on Instagram sharing footage of the announcement, writing: “This is brilliant.”
After Hatton’s death
In the wake of Hatton’s tragic death, Sweeney turned to social media to share her feelings. “I’ve needed a few days to process the devastating news about my dear friend Ricky,” she posted on Instagram.
“My thoughts are with his family especially his children Campbell, Millie Fearne and Lyla, his granddaughter. Ricky, you were the people’s champ. We adored and cherished you. Love you always.” She also shared a collection of photographs showing them together over the years.
Sweeney has additionally posted an image of Hatton whilst paying her respects to him on his 47th birthday on Monday. Uploading a photograph of the boxer to Instagram, she penned: “Happy birthday” accompanied by a prayer and heart emoji.