Boxing icon Ricky Hatton has delivered a heartbreakingly honest assessment of his famous 2012 comeback fight, admitting the drastic weight loss required left him fearing for his life.
The Manchester-born fighter, known as 'The Hitman' during his glittering career, revealed the dark truth behind his preparation for the bout against Ukrainian Vyacheslav Senchenko, which ended in a ninth-round knockout defeat.
The Price of Glory: Hatton's Brutal Weight Cut
"I could be dead," Hatton stated bluntly when reflecting on the extreme measures taken to shed weight. "The weight loss was that dramatic. I was so desperate and in such a bad place."
The former two-weight world champion detailed how he would train relentlessly, often running until he was physically sick, in a desperate bid to make weight for what would become his final professional fight.
Mental Health Battle Behind The Gloves
Behind the physical struggle lay a deeper mental health crisis that Hatton believes clouded his judgement. "I was in such a bad place with my mental health," he confessed. "I was suffering that badly with depression."
The boxing legend explained how his emotional state led him to make dangerous decisions regarding his physical health, prioritising making weight over his overall wellbeing.
A Legacy Beyond The Ring
Despite the painful memories associated with his comeback, Hatton has since rebuilt his life and found purpose in coaching. He now trains rising star Campbell Hatton, his son, passing on his extensive knowledge to the next generation.
His honest reflection serves as a powerful reminder of the immense pressures athletes face, both physically and mentally, particularly in combat sports where weight management can become dangerously obsessive.
Hatton's story stands as both a cautionary tale and testament to resilience, showing that even legends struggle with their demons outside the spotlight.
