Former world champion boxer Ricky Hatton, known as ‘The Hitman’, tragically passed away at the age of 46 earlier this month. He was found dead at his home in Hyde, Greater Manchester, by his friend and manager, Paul Speak. Following his unexpected death, a poignant interview recorded shortly before his passing has revealed Hatton’s struggles with mental health and his journey toward seeking help.
In an interview with First Round TV, Hatton spoke candidly about his experiences with depression. He emphasized that he had reached a turning point, stating, “Thankfully, I didn’t get to the stage where I ended up killing myself. I got to the stage where finally for whatever reason I decided to go and knock on someone’s door and say, ‘Please help me’.” This reflection on his mental health comes as a stark reminder of the challenges many face, despite seeming outwardly strong.
When asked how he felt in that moment, Hatton expressed a sense of optimism, saying, “Never better, to be honest with you.” He shared how grateful he was for the positive experiences he had after seeking help, including reconnecting with family and participating in various projects. “I thank myself every day for that,” he noted, highlighting the importance of reaching out for support.
Hatton’s openness about his struggles has resonated widely, especially among fellow athletes. News of his passing triggered an outpouring of tributes from sports figures such as Tyson Fury, Amir Khan, Roy Keane, and David Beckham, all of whom remembered him fondly and acknowledged his impact on the sport.
Speak, who discovered Hatton’s body, expressed disbelief over his friend’s death, stating, “I firmly believe he didn’t intend to do it. He had it all to live for.” He described the moment he found Hatton as shocking and confusing, indicating that the lights were off in the house, leading him to initially think Hatton had overslept. “I was in a state of shock and confusion and loss,” Speak added, underscoring the emotional turmoil surrounding this tragic loss.
Hatton had been open about his mental health struggles since at least 2018, when he first spoke publicly about suicidal thoughts stemming from a career crisis and troubled relationships. He expressed feelings of hopelessness during that time, saying he “didn’t care if (he) lived or died.” His later comments in the recent interview reflect a journey toward healing, where he aimed to inspire others to seek help.
As the world remembers Ricky Hatton, his legacy extends beyond the boxing ring. His willingness to confront his mental health challenges serves as a beacon for many who may be facing similar struggles. Hatton’s story reinforces the importance of seeking help and the potential for recovery, shedding light on a critical issue that affects countless individuals globally.
