Former boxing world champion Ricky Hatton was found hanged, an inquest has heard.
It’s understood the 46-year-old took his own life.
Stockport Coroner’s Court was told Hatton’s manager, Paul Speak, found him “unresponsive” on 14 September when he arrived to take him to Manchester Airport.
Hatton was last seen on 12 September, when his family said he appeared “well”, but the following day he didn’t show up as an event as expected.
Mr Speak was at the brief 10-minute inquest hearing on Thursday morning, but his family didn’t attend. It was adjourned until 20 March.
The boxer spoke about his personal life and continuing mental health battles in a 2023 Sky documentary.
Hatton was the most popular British fighter of his era and tens of thousands of British fans followed him to Las Vegas for his biggest fights.
Nicknamed “The Hitman”, he won the world title with a stunning win over favourite Kostya Tszyu in 2005 and went on to fight legends such as Floyd Mayweather and Manny Pacquiao – ultimately losing.
In July, he announced was coming out of retirement for a December bout in Dubai, 13 years on from his last pro fight.
Hatton was meant to be flying there on the day he was found.
Thousands turned out on the streets of Greater Manchester last week to pay their respects. The likes of Liam Gallagher, Andrew Flintoff, Wayne Rooney and Tyson Fury also attended.
His son, Campbell, told the service: “I can’t explain how much I’m going to miss you dad, and that we won’t be making any new memories – but the ones we did I will cherish forever.”
His daughters, Fearne, 12, and Millie, 13, also gave emotional tributes.
Anyone feeling emotionally distressed or suicidal can call Samaritans for help on 116 123 or email jo@samaritans.org in the UK. In the US, call the Samaritans branch in your area or 1 (800) 273-TALK.