The world of boxing is reeling from the tragic loss of Ricky Hatton, the beloved former world champion whose death has sent shockwaves far beyond the ring. Known affectionately as "The Hitman," Hatton was discovered unresponsive at his home in Hyde, Greater Manchester, on the morning of September 14, 2025, by his longtime manager and friend, Paul Speak. The inquest, opened at South Manchester Coroner’s Court on October 16, revealed the provisional cause of death as hanging, with authorities confirming that no suspicious circumstances were involved.
Hatton, just 46 years old, had been a towering figure in British boxing, capturing world titles at both light-welterweight and welterweight. His career was marked by electrifying fights, including memorable bouts against legends like Floyd Mayweather Jr., Manny Pacquiao, and Kostya Tszyu. Before his first professional defeat to Mayweather in 2007, Hatton boasted an astonishing record of 43 wins without a loss, ultimately retiring in 2012 with 45 victories from 48 fights.
In the days leading up to his death, Hatton was last seen by his family on September 12, reportedly appearing well and in good spirits. He was scheduled to attend an event on September 13 but failed to appear. The following morning, Speak arrived at Hatton’s home to take him to Manchester Airport for a flight to Dubai, where Hatton was set to make a highly anticipated return to the ring in December after a 13-year hiatus. Instead, Speak found him unresponsive, and the devastating news quickly spread.
The opening of the inquest, led by senior coroner Alison Mutch, was brief but poignant. Mutch stated, "The provisional cause of death is given as hanging." The full inquest has been adjourned until March 20, 2026, when further evidence and witness testimonies will be considered. Police coroner’s officer Alison Catlow reiterated that Hatton was last seen by family two days before his death and had been described as "well." Greater Manchester Police confirmed that they were not treating the death as suspicious.
Hatton’s passing has left his family, friends, and fans heartbroken. In a statement, his family said, "Richard was so much more than a world champion. To us, he was simply ‘Richard’, our son. A loving father, grandfather, and brother, and a true friend to many. He had a heart as big as his smile, and his kindness, humour and loyalty touched everyone who was lucky enough to know him." His son, Campbell, who followed his father into boxing, gave a moving tribute at the funeral: "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." Hatton’s daughters, Fearne and Millie, aged 12 and 13, also spoke of their love and pride for their father.
Hatton’s funeral was held at Manchester Cathedral on October 10, 2025. The city came to a standstill as thousands lined the streets to pay their respects, a testament to his enormous popularity and the affection in which he was held. The service drew a host of celebrities and sporting icons, including Oasis frontman Liam Gallagher, former England and Manchester United striker Wayne Rooney and his wife Coleen, and boxing stars Tyson Fury and Tommy Fury. The ceremony was broadcast to crowds outside the cathedral, allowing the public to share in the moment of remembrance.
Tributes poured in from the boxing world and beyond. Amir Khan called Hatton "one of Britain’s greatest boxers," while Tyson Fury described him as a "legend." Wayne Rooney and Liam Gallagher were among those who attended the memorial, underscoring Hatton’s impact across the sporting and cultural landscape. Hatton’s blue casket, adorned with the words "Blue Moon"—a nod to his beloved Manchester City and his iconic ring-walk anthem—was carried by his son and brother, a deeply symbolic gesture for a man who wore his Mancunian roots with pride.
Hatton’s legacy extends beyond his achievements in the ring. He was renowned for his all-action fighting style and down-to-earth demeanor, qualities that endeared him to fans on both sides of the Atlantic. More than 30,000 supporters famously traveled to Las Vegas in 2007 to watch him face Mayweather, a testament to his magnetic appeal. But Hatton was also open about the personal struggles he faced after retiring from boxing. He spoke candidly about his battles with depression, substance abuse, and suicidal thoughts. In a 2016 interview with the BBC, Hatton revealed, "I tried to kill myself several times. I used to go to the pub, come back, take the knife out and sit there in the dark crying hysterically." His willingness to discuss his mental health challenges made him a powerful advocate for others facing similar battles.
In the months before his death, Hatton had resumed training and appeared to be looking forward to his comeback fight in Dubai. His family and manager stressed that he had been "in a good place" and "excited for the future." Paul Speak, his manager, expressed to Boxing News, "I firmly believe he didn’t intend to do it. It’s for the coroner to determine, but he had it all to live for." The sense of shock is palpable, with many in the boxing community questioning whether enough support exists for athletes struggling with life after the spotlight fades. Sports promoter Barry Hearn called for greater action, stating that "all sports bodies and the government need to look at the issue for athletes who no longer live under the spotlight."
Hatton’s story is a stark reminder of the pressures faced by elite athletes, both during and after their careers. His openness about mental health, coupled with his enduring popularity, has sparked renewed debate about what more can be done to support sports stars adjusting to life outside the ring. As the inquest continues and the boxing world mourns, Hatton’s legacy as both a champion and a candid voice for mental health lives on.
For now, the inquest into Ricky Hatton’s death is ongoing, with a full hearing set for March 2026. His family, friends, and fans continue to celebrate his life and achievements, even as they grapple with the loss of one of boxing’s brightest stars.
