A FOUNDATION has been launched in honour of the late boxer Ricky Hatton.
The former world champion, 46, was tragically discovered by friend and rep Paul Speak at his home in Manchester on September 14.
A website created for the Ricky Hatton Foundation said the boxer was “open and honest about his own struggles with mental health”.
While a poignant post on Instagram said: “The Ricky Hatton Foundation — a not-for-profit organisation dedicated to supporting the mental health and wellbeing of current and former sportspeople.
“Ricky inspired millions with his courage, honesty, and heart. Away from the lights, he also spoke openly about his own battles — reminding us that even the toughest fighters can struggle.
“Through this foundation, we aim to turn that honesty into hope, helping others find the support they need when the fight feels hardest.
“The foundation will raise funds and awareness to provide access to mental health services, community programmes, and educational campaigns across sport.
“It will also continue to build on Ricky’s incredible legacy — one built on courage, compassion, and connection.
“Together, we can make sure no fighter fights alone.”
Ricky won 45 of his 48 fights throughout his stellar career and was a major advocate for boxers’ mental health, bravely sharing his own struggles after his retirement from the sport in 2012.
He is survived by his three children, Campbell Hatton, Millie Hatton, Fearne Grace Hatton.
Following his tragic passing Ricky’s family said: “We are all distraught at the events of recent days.
“To all our knowledge, despite his well-documented struggles, Richard was in a good place.
“He was excited for the future; his bag was packed ready to go to Dubai to promote a comeback fight and he was planning a celebration in Dubai which his beloved girls Millie and Fearne were to be the centre of.
“He was excited that they would see him fight for the first time in person.”
A foundation has been launched in honour of late boxing legend Ricky Hatton[/caption]
YOU’RE NOT ALONE
EVERY 90 minutes in the UK a life is lost to suicide
It doesn’t discriminate, touching the lives of people in every corner of society – from the homeless and unemployed to builders and doctors, reality stars and footballers.
It’s the biggest killer of people under the age of 35, more deadly than cancer and car crashes.
And men are three times more likely to take their own life than women.
Yet it’s rarely spoken of, a taboo that threatens to continue its deadly rampage unless we all stop and take notice, now.
That is why The Sun launched the You’re Not Alone campaign.
The aim is that by sharing practical advice, raising awareness and breaking down the barriers people face when talking about their mental health, we can all do our bit to help save lives.
Let’s all vow to ask for help when we need it, and listen out for others… You’re Not Alone.
If you, or anyone you know, needs help dealing with mental health problems, the following organisations provide support:
- CALM, www.thecalmzone.net, 0800 585 858
- Heads Together,www.headstogether.org.uk
- HUMEN www.wearehumen.org
- Mind, www.mind.org.uk, 0300 123 3393
- Papyrus, www.papyrus-uk.org, 0800 068 41 41
- Samaritans,www.samaritans.org, 116 123
