Ricky Hatton Remembered: Boxing Legacy and Struggles Following His Death
Ricky Hatton, the celebrated British boxer, died by suicide at his home in Hyde on 14 September 2025 at the age of 46. Three months after his death, reflections on his life and the grief that followed have come from those close to him, including his former trainer Billy Graham, friend Jane Couch, and his brother Matthew.
Hatton had a distinguished boxing career spanning over 25 years, highlighted by his induction into the International Boxing Hall of Fame in Canastota in 2024. Early in his career, his 2000 fight in Detroit against Gilbert Quiros showcased his nerve and potential under the guidance of trainer Billy Graham. His peak moment came in 2005 with a victory over Kostya Tszyu at the MEN Arena, where he won the IBF light-welterweight title, a defining achievement in his career.
Following his glory years, Hatton faced significant personal struggles, battling depression and alcohol abuse. His career also saw tough defeats by knockout against Floyd Mayweather in 2007 and Manny Pacquiao in 2009. A comeback attempt in 2012 ended with a loss to Vyacheslav Senchenko, marking a difficult return to the ring.
Hatton’s family continues his boxing legacy; his son Campbell Hatton is now 24, and his nephews Jack, aged 17, and Lola, 13, are also pursuing boxing careers. Jack is trained by Hatton’s father, Matthew Hatton. Relations between Hatton and his longtime trainer Billy Graham deteriorated after a money dispute in 2010, leading to years of estrangement. Graham has since expressed regret over not maintaining contact.
This poignant reflection on Hatton’s career and personal battles serves as a remembrance of both his impact on boxing and the challenges he faced away from the spotlight.
