RICKY Hatton’s ex girlfriend Chelsea Claire has broken her silence on the legendary boxer’s death – affectionally calling him her “inspiration”.
The model, who was 14 years Ricky’s junior, dated him in 2023 after meeting in a Spanish nightclub.
Instagram @chelsea_claire92Ricky Hatton has died at the age of 46[/caption]
InstagramChelsea Claire has paid tribute to her ex[/caption]
The boxing world has been left devastated today after Ricky’s body was found dead at his Manchester home weeks after announcing a bombshell return to the ring.
Sharing a picture of herself with ex Ricky, Chelsea wrote on social media: “Heartbroken doesn’t begin to cover what myself and the rest of the world are feeling.
“You were an inspiration to many and I was lucky to call you my partner.
“You will be missed so much.”
The pair met in August at The Dubliner Bar in Tenerife’s tourist hotspot of Playa De Las Americas and quickly became inseparable.
Nicknamed The Hitman, Ricky charmed Chelsea with his karaoke skills and hilarious attempt at a breakdance routine when they met in 2023.
Recalling her first encounter with the former world welterweight and light-welterweight boxing champion, Chelsea, who lives near Glasgow, told The Sun: “I didn’t know who he was but my friend offered to buy him a drink.
“Instead, he looked over at me and asked me what I wanted.
“I said a Fireball. We both got them then went on the dance floor most of the night.
“He’s not afraid to take the p**s out of himself and was doing the worm.
“He had me laughing all night.
“I can’t say his dancing was as good as his karaoke.
“He sang Wonderwall by Oasis and he’s a really good singer.
“But he was just a real character and he added my Instagram that night so we could see each other again.”
They split after four months after meeting, with Chelsea admitting the age gap proved too much.
Describing the pain of their break-up weeks before he competed on Dancing on Ice, Chelsea told us at the time: “People said we were just a fling but I loved him.
“He told me he loved me. The 14-year age gap means nothing, but I don’t think he is ready to get married.
“Seeing him everywhere because of Dancing On Ice has definitely made the split harder.”
Instagram @chelsea_claire92There were 14 years between the couple[/caption] Creator – [#item_custom_dc:creator]
