Ricky Hatton's heartbreaking final social media post just days before tragic death aged 46

Ricky Hatton's final social media post prior to his death has left many heartbroken.

It was confirmed by Greater Manchester Police earlier today (14 September) that a body was found at an address in Gee Crsoss, with the death not being treated as suspicious.

The legendary British boxer was known as 'The Hitman' throughout his career, boasting an impressive record of 45 wins in 48 professional fight, with 32 of these victories coming via knockout.

An outstanding 15-year career came to a close back in 2012, when the Stockport-born Hatton was defeated by Vyacheslav Senchenko.

The Brit then made a return to the ring in an exhibition fight against Marco Antonio Barrera in 2022.

Hatton was most recently preparing for a sensational return to the professional boxing scene, this time against Eisa Al Dah, 46, in a middleweight face-off in Dubai.

In one of his last posts on Instagram, the former unified light-welterweight world champion shared his training progress with fans eager to see the icon's return to the ring.

Writing on social media, the 46-year-old said: "Evening run in the bag. Don’t your worry about that our kid," along with a video of himself going through the paces on a treadmill, as he filmed himself drenched in sweat.

Hatton shared that he was focusing on his fitness through several posts before his death, ahead of his scheduled bout in just three months time.

He also updated fans on his fitness in a post on 9 September: "The difference I felt today after just having one week under my belt felt great.

"Movement & fluency feeling better already. 10 rounds on the bag. After doing 10 rounds padding my fighters as well."

Below his final post, fans shared their condolences, as one said: "You put Manchester on the map mate. We will all miss you."

Another added: "RIP you legend. I remember first time watching you on transport sport on channel 4! What a legacy and inspiration."

Hatton had even discussed his imminent comeback recently, 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."

In a statement this morning, a GMP spokesperson said: "We can confirm that we have found a body at an address on Bowlacre Road in Gee Cross at 6.45am today, Sunday, September 14. The death is not being treated as suspicious."

Hatton was also known for openly discussing his struggles with mental health and depression over the years.

If you have experienced a bereavement and would like to speak with someone in confidence, contact Cruse Bereavement Care via their national helpline on 0808 808 1677