Boxing Legend Ricky Hatton Dies at 46 from Heart Arrhythmia in Hyde

When Ricky Hatton, a former five‑time world champion nicknamed “The Hitman,” died on 14 September 2025 at age 46, the British boxing community was left reeling.

The 46‑year‑old was found unconscious at his home in Gee Cross, Hyde at 11:47 am BST, and an emergency call was logged by Greater Manchester Police minutes later. A coroner’s interim report released on 20 September pointed to acute cardiac arrhythmia, compounded by severe coronary artery disease and alcohol‑related cardiomyopathy, as the immediate cause of death.

Background: Hatton’s rise and post‑retirement career

Born on 6 October 1978 in Stockport, Ricky Hatton burst onto the scene in 1997 and amassed a 45‑win record, including 32 knockouts. Highlights include his 5 June 2005 TKO of Kostya Tszyu in Las Vegas, which earned him IBF, The Ring and lineal light‑welterweight titles, and a historic 15‑defence run of the WBU belt.

After hanging up the gloves in 2012, he founded Hatton Promotions Ltd., a Manchester‑based promotion company that managed fighters such as Kell Brook and Joseph Parker. He also ran The Hitman Gym in Hyde, mentoring more than 80 amateurs.

The final days: illness, emergency call, and coroner’s findings

Hatton’s last public appearance was a press conference at the Hilton Deansgate on 11 September 2025. Observers, including ESPN analyst Steve Kim, noted his laboured breathing and pallid complexion. He was preparing for a charity showcase at Manchester Arena on 28 September, where he planned to introduce his protégé Liam Smith.

At 11:32 am BST, a neighbor dialed Hyde Fire Station, prompting a rapid response from the ambulance service (ref GMA‑20250914‑55819). Despite resuscitation attempts, Hatton was pronounced dead at 11:47 am. Dr. Alistair MacLeod, his GP at Hyde Medical Centre, confirmed the time of death and later released a brief statement on Hatton’s long‑standing hypertension and weight‑related heart issues.

The inquest, overseen by Senior Coroner Joanne Kearsley, began on 16 September at Tameside General Hospital Mortuary. The final report, signed on 26 September, ruled the death natural, with no foul play.

Boxing world reacts

International Boxing Hall of Fame executive director Edward Brophy called Hatton “the people’s champion” in a 14 September press release, noting his unparalleled fan engagement. World Boxing Association president Gilberto Mendoza Jr. announced that the WBA would retire Hatton’s belt number WBA‑004581 at the December 2025 convention in Acapulco.

Former rivals Floyd Mayweather Jr. and Manny Pacquiao each posted brief tributes on social media, highlighting Hatton’s resilience after their respective bouts.

Institutional responses and legacy initiatives

The British Boxing Board of Control (BBBoC) unveiled the “Richard John Hatton Memorial Award” on 16 September. The £25,000 prize, funded jointly by Hatton Promotions and Matchroom Boxing, will recognise sportsmanship at the BBBoC Awards Dinner each December.

A permanent exhibit featuring Hatton’s robes, gloves and the iconic WBU belt will open at the International Boxing Hall of Fame in June 2026, coinciding with the annual induction weekend.

What comes next: funeral, memorials, and future events

Funeral services are set for 3 October 2025 at 11:00 am BST at Hyde United Reformed Church, followed by interment at Gee Cross Cemetery. A wake will be held later that afternoon at The Hitman Gym.

In addition to the BBBoC award, the Manchester Arena charity event scheduled for 28 September will be postponed, with organisers promising a tribute concert later in the year.

Key facts

• Death: 14 September 2025, 11:47 am BST, Gee Cross, Hyde
• Age: 46 years (17,138 days)
• Cause: Acute cardiac arrhythmia; underlying coronary artery disease and alcohol‑related cardiomyopathy
• Career record: 50 fights – 45‑4‑1
• Post‑retirement: Founder of Hatton Promotions Ltd. and head trainer at The Hitman Gym