Kerry Katona says Ricky Hatton regrets 'keeps replaying in my head'

Kerry Katona has shared her heartbreaking last interactions with late boxer Ricky Hatton and the regret that has been replaying in her head since the news. Ricky passed away on Sunday, 14 September and was found in his home by manager and close friend Paul Speak, with Greater Manchester Police confirming a body had been found at his address and that the death was not being treated as suspicious.

Writing in her weekly New! Magazine column, Kerry admitted that she spoke to Ricky over the summer while they were both in Ibiza, but turned him down when he asked her to come out to meet him. "I was devastated when I heard about Ricky Hatton’s death, it really shook me up. He was a great friend.

"When I was in Ibiza recently he asked me to meet up twice, and I didn’t because I didn’t want to go out and just wanted to chill, but now that has been replaying in my head," admitted Kerry.

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She continued, "My kids have met him too – he jokingly sparred with DJ earlier this year and even said he would help Max with boxing lessons. The whole family have been really upset. I’m sending love to his family."

Mum-of-five Kerry worked with Ricky often over recent months as fellow ambassadors for brand Supreme CBD, and had known the boxer for several years.

Kerry joins a string of celebrities who have been paying tribute to Ricky, with Noel Gallagher sharing his sad final texts with the sportsman. "We were texting each other last week. And I saw him at Heaton Park a couple of the nights, and he was on standard Ricky form. He was wisecracking with everyone, he was having a drink, he was great."

Describing the boxer as "one of us", he explained he was "gobsmacked" at the news of his death. "We don't know what has happened," Noel went on, "but he did struggle with mental health, that's widely known, and it just shows you that you never really know. It's such a shame. He's a great Mancunian."

Ricky's ex Claire Sweeney - who dated him last year and remained friends following their amicable split - also took to social media to share a sad statement.

Taking to Instagram Claire said: "I’ve needed a few days to process the devastating news about my dear friend Ricky. My thoughts are with his family especially his children Campbell, Millie Fearne and Lyla, his granddaughter.

To them, Speaky and to all his friends who loved him so deeply and for so many years I send you my deepest sympathy. Ricky, you were the people’s champ. We adored and cherished you. Love you always," she said.

Claire accompanied her words with a montage of videos and photos from her time with Ricky, soundtracked by the Elvis track 'If I can dream.'

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