Ricky Hatton’s passing was determined to be caused by hanging in an investigation following his discovery at his residence in Manchester. The inquest revealed that his injuries were consistent with hanging, with no signs of suspicious circumstances surrounding his death. Hatton’s loved ones, including his son Campbell, were present at the coroner’s court for the commencement of the inquiry.
Among those in attendance were his long-time friend and manager Paul Speak, his father Ray, brother Matthew, and former partner Jennifer Dooley. The former boxing champion was found at his Hyde home in Greater Manchester on September 14, 2023, at the age of 46.
Paul Speak discovered Hatton unresponsive at his residence, after which it was disclosed that he had last been seen alive by family members two days prior and had appeared well. Concerns arose when Hatton did not show up for a scheduled event the following day, prompting Mr. Speak to visit his home to take him to the airport on September 14.
Senior coroner Alison Mutch presided over the court proceedings, where it was highlighted that no suicide notes were found from Hatton, and there was no indication from the police investigation that he had planned to end his life. The coroner stated that Hatton had made significant future plans and based on the evidence, she could not ascertain that he intended to commit suicide. Therefore, a narrative verdict was reached.
Mutch emphasized the profound loss experienced by Hatton’s family and their ongoing grief. She acknowledged Hatton as a devoted family man, emphasizing his love for his family over his boxing achievements. Hatton’s children were specifically mentioned as missing him greatly, underscoring the unexpected tragedy of a parent burying their child.
The inquest also revealed post-mortem evidence of chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE) in Hatton’s brain, a degenerative brain disease associated with repetitive head injuries common in boxers. His son Campbell described him as determined in sports but laid back in personal life, noting his struggles with alcohol and drugs over the years. Despite these challenges, the family believed Hatton was in a positive state before his untimely passing.
With his death marked as hanging, the inquest concluded with a focus on Hatton’s enthusiastic outlook towards the future and the impact of his loss on his family and loved ones.