In a raw and emotional revelation that has stunned the boxing community, Matthew Hatton - younger brother of British fighting legend Ricky Hatton - has bravely detailed his terrifying descent into depression that brought him to the brink of taking his own life.
The Darkness Descends
The former European welterweight champion, once known for his relentless spirit in the ring, confessed to being overwhelmed by mental health struggles that left him feeling completely isolated. "I was in a dark, dark place," Matthew revealed, his voice heavy with emotion. "There were times when I genuinely believed ending it all was my only way out."
A Fighter's Struggle Outside the Ring
Despite coming from one of Britain's most celebrated boxing families and achieving significant success in his own career, Matthew found himself battling demons that no amount of ring experience could prepare him for. The transition from professional athlete to life after boxing proved more challenging than any opponent he'd faced between the ropes.
"When the bright lights fade and the crowds disappear, that's when the real fight begins," he explained. "I had money, I had success, but none of that mattered when depression took hold."
Brotherly Support Proves Crucial
Ricky Hatton, the former two-weight world champion who has been open about his own mental health battles, emerged as Matthew's cornerstone of support during his darkest hours. The brothers' shared understanding of the unique pressures facing professional athletes created a lifeline when Matthew needed it most.
"Ricky understood in a way others couldn't," Matthew acknowledged. "He'd been through similar struggles himself. Having someone who genuinely gets what you're going through - that makes all the difference."
Breaking the Stigma in Boxing
By speaking out, Matthew hopes to challenge the persistent stigma around mental health in combat sports, where toughness is often measured by one's ability to conceal vulnerability. His message to others suffering in silence is simple yet powerful: "Reaching out isn't weakness - it's the bravest thing you can do."
The Hattons' willingness to discuss their mental health journeys publicly marks a significant shift in a sport traditionally dominated by machismo and stoicism. Their collective voice adds to growing momentum within athletic communities to prioritise psychological wellbeing alongside physical conditioning.
Hope Beyond the Darkness
Now on the road to recovery, Matthew emphasises that professional help and family support have given him tools to manage his mental health. His story serves as both a cautionary tale and a beacon of hope for anyone struggling with similar challenges.
"However dark it seems, however hopeless you feel - please believe me when I say it can get better," he urged. "I'm living proof that there is light at the end of the tunnel, even when you can't see it."
