By Tim Parsons-
An inquest heard on Thursday that former world champion boxer Ricky Hatton was found hanged. The Stockport Coroner’s Court hearing was brief, detailing the circumstances surrounding the death of the popular 46-year-old. It is widely understood that “The Hitman” took his own life, a tragic end for one of Britain’s most beloved sporting figures. The emotional impact of this news has resonated deeply with fans and the wider boxing community globally, following his passing in September.
Pic: PA
The court was told Hatton’s manager, Paul Speak, discovered him unresponsive on September 14th when he arrived at the boxer’s house. Mr. Speak had gone to the residence to collect Hatton for a pre-arranged trip to Manchester Airport. Hatton had been scheduled to fly to Dubai for his highly anticipated comeback bout, announced just two months prior. His family reported last seeing him on September 12th, stating he appeared “well” at the time, although he failed to show up at a planned event the following day.
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Mr. Speak attended the short 10-minute inquest hearing on Thursday morning, although his immediate family members were not present. Establishing Ricky Hatton’s cause of death quickly allowed proceedings to move forward. The hearing was subsequently adjourned, with a full inquest scheduled for March 20th next year, allowing time for further investigation.
The tragedy tragically brings into sharp focus the well-documented mental health struggles the boxer faced throughout his career and retirement. Hatton spoke candidly about his personal life and continuing mental health battles in a revealing 2023 Sky documentary.
Such public admissions highlighted the immense pressures and often hidden vulnerabilities even successful athletes endure. Anyone feeling emotionally distressed or suicidal should call Samaritans for help on 116 123 or seek support from other mental health services.
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Thousands of British fans affectionately followed Hatton to Las Vegas for his biggest fights during his career, cementing his status as the most popular British fighter of his era. He famously won the world title with a stunning, memorable victory over the favoured Kostya Tszyu in 2005.
Following that career pinnacle, he went on to fight all-time greats, including Floyd Mayweather and Manny Pacquiao, ultimately suffering defeats, but always retaining his all-action style and down-to-earth manner. The confirmation of the Ricky Hatton cause of death has provided a formal conclusion to the initial uncertainty.
Hatton’s all-action style and down-to-earth manner made him a star. Pic: Sky News
His son, Campbell, who is also a professional boxer, delivered a heartbreaking tribute at the service. “I can’t explain how much I’m going to miss you dad, and that we won’t be making any new memories—but the ones we did I will cherish forever,” Campbell emotionally told the attendees.
Campbell told ITV News that his father’s passing was “so unexpected” because they had “so many big plans coming up.” The family remains heartbroken yet takes significant comfort from the overwhelming outpouring of love and public support. The family’s tribute underscores the profound loss felt by many across the nation.
Hatton was the most popular British fighter of his era and tens of thousands of fans followed him to Las Vegas for his biggest fights.
“The Hitman” won the world title with a stunning win over favourite Kostya Tszyu in 2005 and went on to fight all-time greats such as Floyd Mayweather and Manny Pacquiao – ultimately losing.
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