Ricky Hatton’s police assertion in full as boxing legend laid to relaxation
Ricky Hatton is set to be laid to rest on Friday, October 10
Today marks the day British boxing legend Ricky Hatton is to be laid to rest. The former world champion, fondly known as ‘The Hitman,’ was tragically found dead at his Hyde home on September 14, sparking a wave of sorrow from admirers, family members and fellow boxers.
Greater Manchester Police (GMP) have consistently stated that there are no suspicious circumstances surrounding his untimely passing. Although the precise cause of death has not been revealed, officials have dismissed any foul play, allowing attention to turn towards honouring Hatton’s extraordinary life and legacy.
Hatton’s body was discovered early in the morning by his long-standing manager and mate, Paul Speak. GMP were alerted at 6:45am and arrived at the scene shortly thereafter.
READ MORE: Ricky Hatton made tragic death admission before heartbreaking passing aged 46READ MORE: Ricky Hatton’s son and brother bravely carry fighter’s coffin as family mourns
In their official statement, issued shortly after the incident, GMP said: “Officers were called by a member of the public to attend Bowlacre Road, Hyde, Tameside, at 6:45am today where they found the body of a 46-year-old man. There are not currently believed to be any suspicious circumstances.”
This wording has been reiterated in all communications from the force, with no further details provided on the cause of death or any possible contributing factors. Sources suggest the case is not being treated as criminal, following standard procedures for non-suspicious incidents, and no additional police investigations have been publicly declared.
Hatton’s relatives have emphasised that the fighter seemed to be “in a good place” during the weeks before his passing.
A statement issued on September 17 revealed: “To all our knowledge, despite his well-documented struggles, Richard was in a good place.
“He was excited for the future; his bag was packed ready to go to Dubai to promote a comeback fight and he was planning a celebration in Dubai of which his beloved girls Millie and Fearne were to be the centre of.”
The family revealed that Hatton had shared a meal with his daughters on the Friday beforehand and had maintained regular communication with relatives and his team.
He was due to watch the Manchester derby at the Etihad Stadium that Sunday, where a minute’s applause, black armbands and a tribute image paid respect to him in his absence.
His scheduled exhibition match in December against Eisa Al Dah in Dubai demonstrated his continued love for the sport, with family members emphasising his dedication as a father to Campbell, Millie, and Fearne and grandfather to Lyla as additional proof of his positive state of mind.
An original family statement, released through GMP, expressed the enormity of their grief: “It is with the heaviest of hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved son Richard… 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.
“He had a heart as big as his smile, and his kindness, humour and loyalty touched everyone who was lucky enough to know him… As a family, our loss is immeasurable, and words cannot truly capture the pain we feel. Yet in the midst of our grief, we have been deeply moved by the overwhelming outpouring of love and support.”
Heartbreaking personal tributes from relatives revealed the devastating impact of their loss.
Hatton’s son Campbell, also a boxer, penned: “Heartbroken isn’t the word… Everybody has always said I was your double – never a truer word said. Looked up to you in every aspect of life… Can’t explain how much I’m going to miss the laughs we had and all the good times, which I will remember forever. Just can’t believe we won’t have any more. Love you, Dad.”
On October 6, what would have been Hatton’s 47th birthday, Campbell shared another poignant message, marking the first such milestone without his beloved father.
“Happy birthday. I wish we were spending it together,” the 24 year old penned.
Meanwhile, Hatton’s brother Matthew expressed: “I love you, Richard. See you on the other side.”
The boxing legend’s funeral service will be held on Friday, October 10, at 12pm in Manchester Cathedral – a poignant choice for the devoted Mancunian and Manchester City fan.
The ceremony will feature a public procession route, enabling supporters to honour him along the streets. The procession will make stops at Harehill Tavern, The New Inn where doves will be released, and Hatton’s gym.
The cortege will then continue past Hyde Town Hall, Betta Bodies Gym and the AO Arena before arriving at the cathedral.
Whilst asking for privacy, the family has welcomed the public to pay their respects to his memory, acknowledging Hatton’s profound bond with the fans who once packed arenas to watch him fight.
In recent days, tributes have mounted outside his residence, including floral displays, boxing gloves, and Manchester City jerseys.
Tameside Council has also established a book of condolence at Hyde Town Hall, whilst a campaign for a statue in his honour has attracted considerable backing.
Furthermore, a fresh charity focused on tackling mental health challenges is being set up in his name, building on his campaigning efforts.
Campbell Hatton expressed his hopes for a substantial turnout for the funeral procession, believing his father would prefer it to be a “celebration of his life” rather than a solemn occasion.
“That [a big turnout] is exactly what he would have wanted,” he said.
“He saw his biggest achievement in boxing as his fanbase; that’s what he was most proud of. He would want the street to be filled with people, there celebrating his life. Everything he did, he did for his fans.”
From his stunning 2005 triumph over Kostya Tszyu to secure the IBF light-welterweight title, to his high-profile clashes with Floyd Mayweather and Manny Pacquiao, Ricky Hatton’s career highlights have firmly established him as one of Britain’s boxing legends. His combative approach and relatable charm attracted huge audiences, inspiring future generations.
