
The inquest into the death of former boxing champion Ricky Hatton has been formally opened and adjourned at South Manchester Coroner’s Court in Stockport. Hatton, 46, who captured world titles at light-welterweight and welterweight, was found dead at his home in Hyde, Greater Manchester on 14 September 2025.
The hearing, which provided preliminary details of the events leading to his death, was attended by Hatton’s manager, Paul Speak, who represented the family. No other family members were present at the opening session.
Circumstances Surrounding Hatton’s Death
According to testimony from Greater Manchester Police officer Alison Catlow, Hatton was last seen by his family on 12 September and was reported to be in good spirits. However, the following day, he did not attend a scheduled public event, raising initial concerns.
On 14 September, Paul Speak arrived at Hatton’s residence to accompany him to a flight to Dubai, only to find the former boxer unresponsive. Senior coroner Alison Mutch confirmed that while the final cause of death is still pending, the incident was indicated as hanging.
The inquest has been adjourned, with a full hearing scheduled for 20 March 2026, where investigators will provide a more detailed account of the circumstances and the official cause of death.
Ricky Hatton: A Sporting Icon
Ricky Hatton, affectionately known as “The Hitman”, was one of Britain’s most beloved boxers, celebrated for both his achievements in the ring and his charismatic personality outside it. Hatton built a massive fan base, including more than 30,000 supporters who traveled to Las Vegas to watch his title fight against Floyd Mayweather in 2007.
Tributes have poured in from the sporting world since the announcement of his death. Fellow British boxer Amir Khan described Hatton as “one of Britain’s greatest boxers,” while Tyson Fury remembered him as a “legend.” Fans across Manchester and the UK mourned his passing, with thousands lining the streets for his funeral procession on 10 October at Manchester Cathedral.
Legacy and Community Impact
Hatton’s impact extended far beyond the boxing ring. Nicknamed “The Saint of Manchester”, he was a hometown hero whose success inspired a generation of aspiring fighters. His charitable work, public appearances, and dedication to fans helped solidify his status as a cultural icon in Manchester and across Britain.
The forthcoming full inquest in March 2026 will likely provide clarity on the circumstances of his death, offering his fans and the wider boxing community a comprehensive understanding of the events leading to the tragic loss.
Key Takeaways
- Ricky Hatton, 46, was found dead at his home in Hyde, Greater Manchester, on 14 September 2025.
- Preliminary inquest opened and adjourned at South Manchester Coroner’s Court.
- Manager Paul Speak represented the family; no relatives were present.
- Cause of death pending, but initial indications suggest hanging.
- Full inquest scheduled for 20 March 2026.
- Hatton remembered as one of Britain’s greatest boxers, a fan favorite, and a cultural icon in Manchester.


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