Ricky Hatton’s inquest: What we discovered and the way it suits into tragic particulars already identified
The inquest into Ricky Hatton’s death heard today that the boxing legend was ‘found hanged’ at his home following his tragic death at the age of 46 last month
The inquest into Ricky Hatton’s death was heard today (Thursday, October 16) after his tragic death at the age of 46.
Hatton’s death rocked the sporting world after he was found dead at his home in Gee Cross, Hyde, on September 14. The two-time world champion boxer was laid to rest in a funeral service last Friday (October 10).
Thousands of mourners crowded the streets of Manchester as the funeral cortege made a more than 15-mile journey from Gee Cross to Manchester city centre for the funeral service at Manchester Cathedral.
Stopping at numerous landmarks the ‘The Hitman’ held dear, including Manchester City’s Etihad Stadium, where fans gathered to pay respects to the passionate City supporter. Following his inquest at South Manchester Coroner’s Court in Stockport, here is what we now know about Hatton’s final days.
Boxing comeback plans and Oasis inspiration
Hatton was preparing for one last comeback in boxing. He had not fought professionally since his ill-fated 2012 bout with Vyacheslav Senchenko, but wanted one last fight.
The Manchester fighter credited the Gallagher brothers’ Oasis reunion with the “inspiration” to step back into the ring. Hatton was close with the brothers, and they even once walked him to the ring for his 2008 win over Paulie Malignaggi.
The Hitman also alluded his last comeback – an exhibition bout in 2022 – had also been a source of inspiration: “It inspired a lot of people, you know, for me to get in shape again at the age I’m at.
“It was nice for so many people to come up to me and go, ‘Oh, I’ve always struggled with my weight and to see you get it off at your age. And to see where you were a few years ago to what you’re doing now, it’s inspirational.’
“Most people most weeks say, ‘From where you were, Rick, to what you’re doing now, it’s so inspiring’. And that’s half the reason why I do it as well.”
Star attended awards
Hatton had gone to train for his bout with Eisa Al Dah, which was set to be staged in Dubai, UAE, at which time Hatton would have been 47-years-old.
One of Hatton’s final public sightings came through his love of football as he took to the red carpet at the PFA Awards on August 19, taking photos next to goalkeeper James Trafford, who had just completed a return to City.
Holiday karaoke
He would then be seen soaking up the remaining summer sunshine in Tenerife as heartwarming footage showed the sporting icon singing along to an Oasis song – he was good friends with the Gallagher brothers – in a local pub.
Carly Leahy and her two youngsters popped to a bar in Costa Adeje in early September when they clocked the Hitman giving fans his own unique take on Wonderwall.
Carly told Manchester Evening News at the time: “He attempted to hit those notes but he definitely messed up the words. I was surprised he didn’t know them by heart because I remember Oasis going to his fights back in the day.”
Sparring with son
It was back into the gym for Hatton after his holiday – with his final posts on Instagram showing him inside of the ring with his son, Campbell. Campbell had followed in the footsteps on his dad – becoming a professional boxer.
In a short clip, Campbell can be seen showing off his skills inside of the ring, throwing quick combos at his dad. The following day, Hatton uploaded a video of him showing off his quick footwork and punching speed as he uploaded on a punching bag.
He also shared a video on the treadmill as he cut weight for the clash.
He’d even returned to the ring to spar with his son and former professional boxer Campbell.
When he was last seen
The court heard how Hatton was last seen by family members on Friday, September 12, and he appeared “well”. He was said to have “returned home” on the Saturday but he failed to attend an event he was due to go to.
Concerns were raised about Hatton’s safety when he failed to appear at an event the night before he was found dead.
BBC boxing expert Steve Bunce told Radio 5 Live: “He was preparing for an exhibition fight. Like it is for so many fighters, the gym’s been his salvation. He was getting his body and his head in a better place.
“Apparently, talking to people, he didn’t show up on Friday at the gym, and he was meant to be at a fight last night, and he didn’t show up, and someone went to his house this morning… It is shocking news.”
Manager’s harrowing discovery
The inquest was told how Hatton’s long time manager and close friend Paul Speak “arrived as previously arranged” at Hatton’s home on the Sunday morning as he was due to accompany him to Manchester Airport to board a flight to Dubai.
The inquest was told Ricky was found “unresponsive” at his home. The court heard Speak was present in court on behalf of the family. Coroner Alison Mutch sent her condolences to the family through him.
Ms Mutch said a post-mortem examination was carried out and the provisional cause of death was given as “hanging”.
Ms Catlow confirmed Hatton was found dead at his home on September 14. She said he was a boxing trainer and company director, he was single and lived alone.
What his manager has said
In an interview with Boxing News, Speak said: “The lights weren’t on, which I thought was strange. I thought he’d overslept, but it’s not unusual. People do oversleep. So, I went inside – I have a key – shouting, ‘Rick, Rick, wake up!’
“I heard music coming from upstairs, so I went upstairs… I took a look at him… I had to take some time to process it. I was in a state of shock and confusion and loss and many more emotions. Then I called the police and the ambulance.
“But I firmly believe he didn’t intend to do it. It’s for the coroner to determine, but he had it all to live for.” Speak added: “He’d arranged to take his daughters to see Oasis next week.
“He was planning to go to Thailand for the WBC convention and a holiday after his fight. He’d just booked a flight to Tenerife for Christmas. I want to get the truth out, otherwise people will just speculate.”
What happens next
Ms Mutch said it was “clear” the law required her to order that a full inquest into Ricky’s death should be held.
The inquest has now been adjourned. A full inquest will be held on March 20 next year. No further details were revealed and the hearing was concluded.
The Daily Star has teamed up with Ricky’s local newspaper the Manchester Evening News to raise funds for charities Andy’s Man Club and CALM in the boxing legend’s honour.
For emotional support, you can call the Samaritans 24-hour helpline on 116 123, email [email protected] , visit a Samaritans branch in person or go to the Samaritans website.
