MANCHESTER, Oct. 16 — Former British boxing world champion Ricky Hatton died by suicide, a coroner confirmed on Thursday during a brief hearing at the Stockport Coroner’s Court in Greater Manchester.
Coroner Alison Mutch revealed that the 46-year-old’s provisional cause of death was hanging. Hatton was found unresponsive in his bedroom on September 14 by his long-time friend and manager, Paul Speak, who had arrived to collect him for a flight to Dubai. He was scheduled to attend a press conference there to announce a comeback fight later in December.
A Shock to the Sporting World
Police confirmed there were no suspicious circumstances surrounding Hatton’s death. The hearing, which lasted about ten minutes, was adjourned until March 2026 for a full inquiry. Hatton’s family did not attend Thursday’s session; however, Speak was present in court on their behalf.
Known affectionately as “The Hitman,” Hatton’s all-action style and humble personality made him one of Britain’s most loved athletes. A native of Manchester, the boxer held multiple world titles across two divisions—super-lightweight and welterweight—during a professional career spanning from 1997 to 2012.
Tributes flooded in from fans, celebrities, and fellow boxers worldwide. Stars such as Tyson Fury, Liam Gallagher, and Wayne Rooney attended his funeral service at Manchester Cathedral on October 12, where thousands gathered to pay their respects.
Career and Legacy
Hatton’s career highlights included unforgettable bouts against Floyd Mayweather Jr., Manny Pacquiao, and Kostya Tszyu, the latter earning him international acclaim in 2005. His record of 45 wins in 48 fights cemented his place among Britain’s boxing greats.
While known for his achievements in the ring, Hatton also battled personal challenges, openly discussing struggles with mental health in interviews and documentaries. The 2023 Sky documentary “Hatton” explored his post-retirement life and emotional battles outside the spotlight.
His family released a heartfelt statement describing him as “a loving father, son, and friend who had a heart as big as his smile.” They added that he had seemed “in a good place,” looking forward to his planned comeback fight in Dubai.
A Nation in Mourning
Flags at boxing gyms across Manchester were lowered in tribute to Hatton, while social media was flooded with messages celebrating his charisma and relentless fighting spirit. Known for walking out to “Blue Moon,” the anthem of his beloved Manchester City, he embodied local pride and loyalty throughout his life.
Even in retirement, Hatton remained deeply connected to boxing, training young fighters and promoting the sport through his Manchester gym. His sudden death has renewed conversations in British sports about athlete mental health and the pressures faced after retirement.
The inquest into his death will reconvene in March 2026, with coroner Alison Mutch expected to release a full report on the findings.
If you or someone you know is struggling, call Samaritans at 116 123 in the UK for free, confidential support.
