Ricky Hatton's family issue emotional plea after boxing icon's cause of death revealed
An inquest into the death of Ricky Hatton has been opened and adjourned, with the boxing legend found hanged at his home in Hyde, Manchester, last month
Ricky Hatton's family have urged those battling mental health struggles not to suffer in silence following the boxing legend's tragic death at his home in Hyde, Manchester, last month. Hatton, 46, was celebrated by thousands at his recent funeral, with his loved ones now determined to create a lasting positive impact from his legacy.
An inquest into Hatton's death opened and was adjourned on Thursday. The hearing revealed that Hatton was discovered hanged by his manager, Paul Speak.
Speak, who attended the brief 10-minute session at Stockport Coroner's Court, discovered Hatton 'unresponsive' when he arrived at the property to collect the former boxing champion for a trip to Manchester Airport on September 14.
Hatton's relatives are now encouraging those facing similar battles to reach out for support. They have established a charity in Ricky's honour to assist others in need.
Speaking to The Sun, via Speak, the family said: "The message we are trying to pass on is, you don't need to fight alone. If you need help, seek help, and talk to someone if you're struggling."
He added: "Rick wasn't afraid to talk about his problems. He made it safer for others to speak up and not be afraid to seek help.
"No one can go through life without problems of some sort. As people, what we do is we bottle it up more often than not.
"The message we want to get across is you can speak to someone. We want to raise awareness so people know it's OK to talk, no one needs to fight alone."
The Ricky Hatton Foundation's mission is to raise awareness of mental health challenges, remove the stigma that prevents people from speaking up, and educate and support individuals through community programmes, outreach, and practical resources.
It also looks to offer direct support through talking therapies and to be there in the corner of those struggling with mental health, so that they know they do not have to go through the fight alone.
An official statement on the website also outlines how sport will be at the heart of its work. It reads: "Just as Ricky used boxing to inspire people, the Foundation will use sport — boxing, football, and beyond — as a powerful vehicle to bring people together, spark conversation and drive positive change.
"We thank everyone from the world of boxing and sport who have already reached out and offered their support."
At the time of writing, a JustGiving page has already raised £9,500 of its £100,000 target. An Instagram post for the foundation added: "Ricky inspired millions with his courage, honesty, and heart. Away from the lights, he also spoke openly about his own battles - reminding us that even the toughest fighters can struggle.
"Through this foundation, we aim to turn that honesty into hope, helping others find the support they need when the fight feels hardest."
If you have been affected by any of the issues raised in this story, information and support can be found at the Hub of Hope, the UK's largest mental health support directory: https://hubofhope.co.uk/. You can call the Samaritans free at any time from any phone on 116 123. Lines are open 24 hours a day. You can also email jo@samaritans.org