Challenges Faced by Ricky Hatton: Obstacles and Turning Points

Resilience and perseverance in the journey of Ricky Hatton. A timeline of obstacles and growth.

Ricky Hatton, a British professional boxer active from 1997 to 2012, achieved considerable success, earning nicknames like "The Hitman" and "The People's Champion." He held multiple light-welterweight world championships and one welterweight title. Hatton received Fighter of the Year awards from The Ring, the Boxing Writers Association of America, and ESPN in 2005. Post-retirement, he transitioned into boxing promotion and training.

Sections (5)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Success & Recognition Challenges & Struggles

1996: AIBA Youth World Boxing Championships

In 1996, Hatton represented his country at the AIBA Youth World Boxing Championships. His elimination in the semi-finals caused controversy.

December 2007: Fight Against Mayweather Jr.

On December 8, 2007, Hatton fought Floyd Mayweather Jr. at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas.

2007: Loss Against Mayweather Jr.

In 2007, Hatton had his career-first defeat against Floyd Mayweather Jr. in an attempt to win the World Boxing Council (WBC), Ring and lineal welterweight titles and also won the vacant IBF title for a second time, as well as the International Boxing Organization (IBO) title.

May 2009: Hatton Fights Manny Pacquiao

In May 2009, Ricky Hatton fought Manny Pacquiao, who was the number one pound-for-pound fighter at the time.

2009: Loss Against Pacquiao

In 2009, Hatton lost his IBO, Ring and lineal light welterweight titles to Manny Pacquiao.

September 2010: Hatton Enters Rehab for Substance Abuse

In September 2010, Ricky Hatton was admitted to The Priory rehabilitation facility in Roehampton, London, for substance abuse and clinical depression. This followed an incident where he was caught on camera apparently snorting cocaine.

September 2010: News of the World Publishes Cocaine Allegations

On September 12, 2010, The News of the World published a story alleging that Ricky Hatton was a regular cocaine user, including photos of him apparently using the drug. Hatton was reported to be "devastated" by the story.

2012: Hatton's Estrangement and Altercation with Father

In 2012, according to his autobiography, Ricky Hatton had been estranged from his parents for several years due to a financial dispute. He also mentioned his father punched him in the face during a confrontation in a car park.

December 2016: Hatton Discusses Suicide Attempts

In December 2016, Ricky Hatton revealed that he had attempted suicide on several occasions due to depression, which was exacerbated by drinking and drug use.

October 2025: Opening of Hatton's Inquest

On October 16, 2025, the opening of Ricky Hatton’s inquest at Stockport Coroner’s Court reported that he had taken his own life. His manager found him at his home.