“Drug myself to death”: Ricky Hatton spoke of pain addiction and suicidal thoughts before sudden death in Manchester

Ricky Hatton was found dead at his home in Hyde, Greater Manchester, on Sunday morning, September 14, 2025. He was 46. Police said officers were called at 6:45 a.m. after a member of the public raised the alarm.

Greater Manchester Police told reporters the death is not being treated as suspicious. Hatton’s passing came months after he announced a return to the ring in Dubai. The news shocked fans and fighters around the world. Hatton had openly spoken before about deep mental health struggles that followed big defeats in his career.

Ricky Hatton and Manny Pacquiao fight that changed his life

Ricky Hatton told interviewers that his two-round defeat to Manny Pacquiao in 2009 hit him very hard.

He said that the loss marked a turning point. After the fight, Hatton said he “hit rock bottom” and could not stop hurting inside.

He admitted trying to take his own life more than once and that, at one point, he thought: “I will drink and drug myself to death.” Those words came in interviews he gave about his struggles as a retired fighter. The long fall from success to pain was clear to people who knew him. His career highs, big home fights and world belts sit beside years of fighting addiction and depression.

Also Read:

Ricky Hatton’s Family Leads Emotional Tributes After Boxing Legend’s Sudden Death At 46

Ricky Hatton’s family, friends and what people said

Hatton’s parents, Carol and Ray, paid a short tribute and asked for privacy as they grieve. They named their son just "Richard," and claimed he was a kind father and friend whose compassion touched many. On social media, fellow fighters and promoters expressed their shock and sadness. Local authorities and Manchester City likewise paid tribute to him following the news. Police and local authorities are helping Hatton's family and stated a post-mortem will confirm the cause of death. Fans have come together virtually to memorialize his battles, grin, and the assistance he gave when he discussed mental health.