A post-mortem examination has revealed that boxing legend Ricky Hatton was suffering from chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE) at the time of his death. The former world champion died on September 14, 2025, at the age of 46.
An inquest held on Friday heard that analysis of Hatton's brain showed 'degenerative changes' consistent with CTE, a condition linked to repeated blows to the head. Experts stated the disease was at the milder end of the spectrum, causing memory loss and cognitive impairment.
CTE leads to the death of nerve cells in the brain and can result in dementia. It is rare and can only be diagnosed after death. The pathologist recorded a cause of death as hanging, with no evidence of suspicious circumstances.
The NHS notes that early symptoms of CTE include personality changes, mood swings, and aggression. Later symptoms may include confusion, short-term memory loss, and problems with movement or planning. Symptoms typically appear around 10 years after repeated head injuries.
While CTE is most commonly associated with contact sports such as boxing, rugby, and American football, it can also affect military personnel with blast injuries and victims of prolonged physical abuse. There is no cure, but treatments for symptoms are available.
