Ricky Hatton’s family say he had been “in a good place” and “excited for the future” before his death.

The 46-year-old former world welterweight champion was found dead at his home in Hyde on Sunday. Greater Manchester Police said there were no suspicious circumstances.

A new family statement issued via Hatton’s Instagram account on Wednesday said Hatton had been found by his long-time manager, Paul Speak.

“We are all distraught at the events of recent days,” the statement began.

“To all our knowledge, despite his well-documented struggles, Richard was in a good place.

“He was excited for the future; his bag was packed ready to go to Dubai to promote a comeback fight and he was planning a celebration in Dubai, which his beloved girls Millie and Fearne were to be the centre of.”

Hatto

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