Former Boxing Champion Ricky Hatton’s Death Confirmed as Suspected Hanging, Inquest Reveals

Published: October 17, 2025, 21:45 EDT

The inquest into the death of former world boxing champion Ricky Hatton has revealed that the 46-year-old athlete likely died by hanging at his Manchester home on September 14, according to findings presented by PA Media.

Coroner Confirms Preliminary Findings

During the opening hearing at Manchester South Coroner’s Court, senior coroner Alison Mutch stated that the provisional cause of death was hanging. Hatton was discovered unresponsive at his home by his long-time manager, Paul Speak, on the morning of September 14.

According to police, there were no suspicious circumstances surrounding his death, though an official cause had not been publicly confirmed until now. The coroner adjourned the inquest until March 20, 2026, to allow for further examination and evidence review.

Timeline Leading Up to Hatton’s Death

Court documents indicated that Hatton was last seen by his family on September 12 and appeared “well” at that time. However, he failed to appear at an event scheduled the following day. When his manager arrived on the 14th to take him to the airport for a planned flight to Dubai, Hatton was found unresponsive.

The British boxing community and fans around the world were shocked by the sudden loss of the beloved fighter, who was reportedly preparing for a comeback match in Dubai later this year.

Career Highlights and Legacy

Known by his nickname “The Hitman,” Ricky Hatton became one of Britain’s most celebrated boxers during the 2000s. He captured world titles in both the light-welterweight and welterweight divisions, defeating renowned opponents such as Kostya Tszyu and facing global stars like Floyd Mayweather Jr. and Manny Pacquiao.

Before his first professional loss to Mayweather in 2007, Hatton held an undefeated record of 43 wins. He ultimately retired in 2012 with a professional record of 45 victories and three defeats, securing his reputation as one of Britain’s most successful fighters of his generation.

Personal Struggles and Planned Return

In later years, Hatton was candid about his battles with depression, alcohol, and substance abuse, speaking publicly about mental health challenges faced by athletes. Despite these struggles, he had recently announced plans for a return to the ring, scheduled to fight Eisa Al Dah in Dubai on December 2, 2025.

Friends and colleagues described him as a passionate figure who remained deeply connected to the sport and to his Manchester roots.

Tributes from the Boxing World

Hatton’s death prompted tributes from across the sporting community. Fellow British champions Amir Khan and Tyson Fury were among those who honored his legacy, describing him as both a fierce competitor and a beloved friend.

A memorial service held on October 10 in Manchester drew thousands of attendees, including Fury, Oasis frontman Liam Gallagher, and former England footballer Wayne Rooney.

Hatton, a devoted Manchester City supporter, was laid to rest in a blue casket inscribed with the words “Blue Moon,” referencing both the club’s anthem and his iconic ring-walk song.

A Legacy Beyond the Ring

Beyond his boxing accolades, Hatton was admired for his humility, humor, and accessibility to fans. His life reflected both the triumphs and the personal battles that often define athletes after retirement.

As the inquest continues, tributes continue to pour in, with many emphasizing his impact on British boxing and his openness about mental health — issues that continue to resonate across the sporting world.

source: CNN – Former world boxing champion Ricky Hatton died by suspected hanging, inquest hears