Former world boxing champion Ricky Hatton was discovered to have been afflicted with a degenerative brain ailment prior to his passing. Post-mortem examinations unveiled indications of chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE) in Hatton’s brain, as disclosed during the investigation into his demise.
Medical scrutiny of Hatton’s brain revealed degenerative alterations commonly observed in elderly individuals, often associated with diseases like Alzheimer’s. Experts confirmed that these findings were in line with CTE resulting from repetitive brain trauma, a common occurrence in boxers, albeit at a less severe level, leading to memory loss and cognitive decline.
Nonetheless, the brain damage was deemed unrelated to his death. The inquiry also indicated no clear intention from Hatton to end his life, despite the official cause of death being reported as hanging.
Senior coroner Alison Mutch stated that no written notes were found, and there was no proof suggesting that the 46-year-old had planned suicide. She delivered a narrative verdict, underscoring the uncertainty about Hatton’s intentions.
Hatton’s family mentioned that he had been in high spirits and looking forward to the future shortly before his passing. They portrayed him as a dedicated father who was in a better place than he had been in years, despite past struggles with substance abuse.
On the night of Friday, September 12 last year, Hatton dined with his daughters and granddaughter at a pub, appearing normal and mentioning his upcoming trip to Dubai for a boxing exhibition. However, he failed to show up for an appointment the next day. Early on Sunday morning, his manager found him unresponsive in a games room at his residence in Hyde, Greater Manchester.
Tests revealed that Hatton had exceeded the legal alcohol limit at the time of his death. Previous cocaine use and traces of cannabis were also detected, although they were not believed to have contributed to his demise.
Detective Sergeant Helen Grigalis of Greater Manchester Police disclosed that Hatton had returned home after the dinner, sent a message to a friend, and last unlocked his phone just after midnight with no further activity. Subsequent attempts to contact him the following day went unanswered until he was discovered by his manager, fully clothed with music playing in the background.
Emergency services confirmed his passing, with no signs of foul play at the scene and no indication of suicidal intent. Statements read at the hearing described Hatton as a relaxed but determined individual, particularly in sports.
His family believed that Hatton had future plans and did not perceive his death as premeditated, although they noticed a decline in his short-term memory in recent times. The impact of his death left his daughters devastated, with lasting repercussions for the family.