Ricky Hatton has shared a four-word statement on his future with Claire Sweeney as he confirmed he’s been dating the actress for five months. The pair met when taking part in Dancing on Ice 2024 earlier this year.

Soon after the series finished, boxer Ricky, aka ‘The Hitman’ and Coronation Street star Claire were spotted on a series of pub dates throughout spring. before they stepped out on the red carpet together for the first time in May as they enjoyed the first opening night of Manchester’s new £365m Co-op Live Arena.

Then last month, the new couple were seen enjoying a sun-soaked holiday in Tenerife and Ricky, 45, and Claire, 53, recently headed back abroad and enjoyed a long weekend in Mallorca with his family.

And it’s fair to say they looked the picture of happiness as they attended the star-studded Sedulo Foundation Colour Ball gala in Manchester on Thursday night (June 27). Claire looked fabulous in a hot pink jumpsuit with a crossed neck and cut out across the and while Ricky went for a smart look, sporting a black shirt and trousers with a floral-patterned black blazer.

Speaking about taking part on Dancing on Ice, and it leading to him meeting Claire, who is currently playing Cassie Plummer in ITV’s Corrie, Ricky said; “I had a good laugh on the ice. I mean, after the first day, I was scared to death but I always love a challenge.”

He joked to the Mirror: “I got knocked out in the first round, but I was able to able to meet Claire. I was always a Billy no mates at these things before Claire.” He then said of their relationship: “No, it’s great! Me and Claire have been together about five months now,” before adding: “Long may it continue!”

Earlier this week, Claire shared a snap of herself and Ricky from their brief sunny trip to Spain and simply said in view of her fans and followers on Instagram: “Lovely weekend in Majorca with @rickyhitmanhatton x”.

Claire’s celebrity followers were quick to comment, as Emmerdale’s Michelle Hardwick writing: “Beautiful. Gutted we missed you”. This Morning’s Josie Gibson simply posted a series of red heart emojis, while Vanessa Feltz posted: “So glad you two are having fun.” Actor and film producer Terry Stone also said: “Lovely couple right there”.

And Claire’s fans and followers were also keen to respond. @nicolasarahgreenwood said: “Genuinely can’t wait to see where this goes and I think it’s going to go far.” @theabicollins commented: “You’re such a beauty inside and out. He’s a very lucky chap.” @collette_collinge_art wrote: “Glad you’re both Happy Claire, both lovely people.”

@tracyluv78 replied: “This is so adorable. I hope both your hearts are very happy.” @greenwood5098 posted: “You look fabulous Claire. Look great together.” @karenclare66 shared: “Looking gorgeous and very happy.” @louisey_bainbridge added: “Looking fabulous the pair of you!!!!”