The cause of Ricky Hatton's death was provisionally confirmed as hanging on Thursday as a public inquest into the boxing legend's tragic death began. The former world champion was discovered at his home in Hyde, Greater Manchester on September 14, just shy of his 47th birthday.
Senior coroner Alison Mutch chaired the inquest at South Manchester Coroners' Court in Stockport, which commenced at 9am. Hatton's death was not being treated as suspicious. The court was told how he was found 'unresponsive' at his home. Ms Mutch said it was 'clear' that the law required her to order that a full inquest into his death should be held.
She opened and adjourned the inquest, and a full inquest will be held on March 20 next year. Hatton was found dead at his Manchester home by his manager and long-time friend Paul Speak last month. Mr Speak was due to accompany the fighter to Dubai the same day for a press conference to officially announce his comeback fight.
Hatton had been last seen by his family on September 12. He was said to have 'appeared well', but then did not show up to a scheduled event the next day. A post-mortem examination was carried out but the full results are not yet known, with a provisional cause of death given as hanging.
Shortly after Hatton's passing, Greater Manchester Police shared a statement that read: 'Officers were called by a member of the public to attend Bowlacre Road, Hyde, Tameside, at 6:45am today where they found the body of a 46-year-old man. There are not currently believed to be any suspicious circumstances.'
Hatton's close friend previously recalled the moment he discovered him at his home when he arrived to wake him for the flight to Dubai. Mr Speak is adamant that 'the truth' about Hatton's death will emerge, firmly believing that the star 'didn't intend' to die.
