Former world boxing champion Ricky Hatton was discovered to have been more than twice the legal drink drive limit at the time of his tragic death, a coroner's inquest has officially heard. The 46-year-old sporting icon, affectionately known as "The Hitman," was found unresponsive at his home in Hyde, Greater Manchester, on the morning of Sunday 14 September 2025.
Discovery and Investigation
His manager, Paul Speak, had arrived to take him to the airport for a flight to Dubai when he made the heartbreaking discovery. Senior coroner for South Manchester, Alison Mutch, presided over the inquest and concluded that it remains unclear whether Mr Hatton intended to take his own life. The last time his family saw him was on 12 September, when he appeared "well," but he failed to attend an event the following day, raising initial concerns.
A Family's Heartbreak
The death of Mr Hatton, described as a doting father and grandfather, has left his family utterly heartbroken and his legion of fans across the globe stunned. In a poignant statement, his family expressed their profound loss, saying, "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." They added, "He had a heart as big as his smile, and his kindness, humour and loyalty touched everyone who was lucky enough to know him."
Legacy of a People's Champion
Ricky Hatton was widely regarded as a "People's Champion," adored by thousands for his likeable, humble personality and jocular nature. His all-action fighting style and down-to-earth demeanour made him one of the most popular fighters on both sides of the Atlantic. Tributes poured in from the world of boxing and the wider sporting community, honouring the proud Mancunian and avid Manchester City supporter.
His family insisted that the former world champion was "in a good place" and had future plans, including his bags packed for a comeback fight scheduled in Dubai for December. However, Mr Hatton had been openly candid about his struggles with mental health, drink, and drugs, as well as past suicide attempts following his retirement from boxing after an ill-advised comeback in 2012.
Funeral and Public Mourning
Thousands of mourners lined the streets of Manchester for his funeral at Manchester Cathedral, a testament to his enduring popularity. The service was attended by numerous celebrities, including Oasis frontman Liam Gallagher, former England and Manchester United striker Wayne Rooney, and boxers Tyson and Tommy Fury. This public outpouring of grief highlighted the deep impact he had on fans and the sporting world alike.
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