World champion boxer Ricky Hatton’s cause of death revealed

An inquest has heard that former world champion boxer Ricky Hatton was found hanged at his home last month, with proceedings at Stockport Coroner’s Court confirming that the 46-year-old took his own life.

The brief ten-minute hearing on Thursday morning revealed that Hatton’s long-time manager, Paul Speak, discovered the much-loved sportsman unresponsive on 14 September. He had arrived at Hatton’s home in Gee Cross, Hyde to take him to Manchester Airport, where the boxing legend was due to fly to Dubai.

Hatton was last seen alive on 12 September, with family members stating he appeared "well" at the time. Concerns were raised when he failed to show up at an event the following day.

Mr Speak attended the inquest, though Hatton’s family were not present. The hearing has been adjourned until 20 March for further proceedings.

Hatton, affectionately nicknamed "The Hitman", was one of Britain’s most celebrated boxers, known not just for his thrilling performances in the ring but also for his everyman appeal. He reached the pinnacle of the sport with a sensational 2005 win over Kostya Tszyu to claim the IBF light-welterweight title, a night many fans still consider one of the greatest in British boxing history.

His career saw him face boxing icons such as Floyd Mayweather Jr. and Manny Pacquiao, drawing tens of thousands of British fans to Las Vegas in support. Despite suffering defeats against both men, Hatton’s popularity never waned.

Outside the ring, Hatton was open about his struggles with mental health, particularly in recent years. In a 2023 Sky documentary, he candidly discussed his ongoing battles and the toll that retirement and public pressure had taken on him.

In July of this year, he had announced a surprise return to the ring, scheduled for December in Dubai, a comeback bout that would have marked 13 years since his last professional fight. It was on the day of his intended departure for Dubai that he was tragically found.

The news of his death sent shockwaves through the sporting world and the Greater Manchester community. Thousands lined the streets last week to pay their final respects, as Hatton’s funeral procession passed through his hometown. Notable names from the world of sport and music, including Liam Gallagher, Andrew Flintoff, Wayne Rooney, and Tyson Fury, joined mourners in honouring the local hero.

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