Ricky Hatton, the boxing legend, was discovered deceased at his residence in Manchester last year with injuries indicating a possible hanging, according to a pathologist’s report presented during an inquest. The cause of death was officially recorded as “hanging,” with no signs of suspicious circumstances noted. Friends and family, including his son Campbell, gathered at Stockport coroner’s court for the start of the inquiry into his passing.
Among those present were long-time friend and manager Paul Speak, Ricky’s father Ray, brother Matthew, and former partner Jennifer Dooley. Hatton, a former world champion, was found at his £1.7 million home in Hyde, Greater Manchester, at the age of 46 on September 14. His unresponsive state was first discovered by Paul Speak, who went to Hatton’s house to collect him for a trip to Manchester Airport.
The inquest revealed that Hatton had been seen alive by family members on September 12, appeared well, but failed to attend a scheduled event the following day. Subsequently, Paul Speak went to his home on the morning of September 14 to take him to the airport for his Dubai boxing match. The coroner, Alison Mutch, stated that despite the presence of chronic traumatic encephalopathy and alcohol influence, she could not conclusively determine suicide as Hatton’s intent.
Furthermore, family members described Hatton as a devoted father who was optimistic about the future and showed no indication of planning his demise. The inquest highlighted evidence of chronic traumatic encephalopathy in Hatton’s brain, likely stemming from his boxing career. Campbell Hatton, in a statement, portrayed his father as determined in sports yet laid-back in life, emphasizing his generosity and the family’s belief that his passing was not premeditated.
The inquest also revealed details of Hatton’s last moments, including a toxicological report indicating alcohol intoxication and the absence of any notes suggesting suicidal intentions. The findings, coupled with family testimonies and the absence of suspicious circumstances, led to a narrative verdict by the senior coroner. Hatton’s family, still in mourning, remembered him as a cherished family member who had a profound love for his family despite his boxing success.