The sudden death of Ricky Hatton has sent shockwaves through both the sporting and entertainment worlds. Now, his former Dancing On Ice partner Robin Johnstone has spoken out, reflecting on the impact the tragedy will have on his ex-girlfriend, actress Claire Sweeney.
Ricky and Claire first reconnected when they appeared together on ITV’s skating competition. Their friendship quickly developed into a romance, and while the relationship didn’t last, Robin says the bond between them remained. “We were friends with Claire, too,” she explained. “I haven’t talked to her in a while, but they stayed good friends as far as I know. I’m sure she’s heartbroken – everyone from the show will be so upset and sad.”
The former world champion boxer was found dead at his home in Hyde, Greater Manchester, over the weekend at the age of 46. Police confirmed his death is not being treated as suspicious. Hatton, who would have turned 47 next month, leaves behind three children, including his son Campbell, who recently retired from professional boxing.
Robin recalled the special connection she built with Hatton during and after their time on the show. “You become so close on something like Dancing On Ice. He just loved life. He seemed such a happy-go-lucky guy, so caring. We’ll miss him terribly.” She added that Ricky was the partner she stayed in touch with the most, speaking to him every couple of weeks. “He was in training mode and seemed in such good form. His girls even came along to the Torvill and Dean tour – we met them several times.”
Tributes have poured in from across the celebrity world. Coronation Street actor Will Mellor shared a heartfelt black-and-white tribute photo, writing: “I’m absolutely devastated to hear about my good friend Ricky Hatton. He was the real people’s champion, but his biggest battle was his mental health. May you rest in peace, mate.”
David Beckham also remembered the fighter in a series of Instagram posts, describing him as “one of a kind” and “so loved by his fans.” He added simply: “Just heartbreaking.”
Hatton’s legacy as both a champion in the ring and a much-loved public figure lives on – but for those who knew him best, the loss feels deeply personal.
