In a shockingly candid and emotional revelation, British boxing icon Ricky Hatton has pulled back the curtain on the dark reality of his life after retirement, confessing to a devastating spiral of depression, alcohol, and cocaine.
The former two-weight world champion, beloved by fans for his all-action style, described a torturous existence where he would consume a staggering 25 pints of lager a day in a desperate attempt to numb the pain of leaving the sport he loved.
A Champion's Descent into Darkness
Hatton, known as 'The Hitman' during his glittering career, found the transition from a life of discipline and adulation to one of quiet obscurity utterly debilitating. The structure provided by training camps and the roar of the crowd were replaced by a void he struggled to fill.
"I was drinking probably 15 to 20 pints, 25 pints on a bad day, and then I'd be doing the cocaine on top of that," Hatton disclosed, revealing the horrifying extent of his addiction. This wasn't the life of a celebratory retiree but of a man in deep crisis, using substances as a crutch for profound mental anguish.
The Turning Point: A Cry for Help
The Manchester-born fighter's story serves as a powerful warning about the mental health challenges athletes face when their careers abruptly end. The identity he had built over decades was stripped away, leading to a severe identity crisis.
His journey back from the brink is a testament to human resilience. Through seeking professional help, confronting his demons, and rediscovering a purpose through coaching, Hatton began the long road to recovery. He has since become a vocal advocate for mental health awareness, particularly within the sporting community.
A Message of Hope and Recovery
Today, Hatton uses his platform to ensure others don't suffer in silence. His frank discussion about hitting rock bottom is not for sensationalism but to offer a lifeline to those experiencing similar struggles.
"It was a cry for help," he admitted, reflecting on his lowest moments. His story is no longer just about belts and victories in the ring; it's a profoundly human story of falling apart and finding the incredible strength to piece oneself back together, offering hope and solidarity to countless others facing their own battles.
