Former world champion boxer Ricky Hatton, who passed away in September at 46, left behind a remarkable financial legacy for his three children. New documents reveal the late legend strategically invested his fight earnings into a vast property portfolio, now valued at over $50 million, to ensure his family's long-term security.
From Ring Riches to Real Estate Empire
Unlike many fighters who face financial difficulties after retirement, Hatton was determined to build a stable future. He channeled a significant portion of his earnings from a glittering 15-year career into a diverse range of properties across England. His investments included flats, housing developments, and commercial properties in Greater Manchester, London, Kent, and Leicestershire.
Hatton's business acumen was as sharp as his punches. He became a director of more than 20 companies and even established his own internal finance firm, DHT Finance. This firm provided loans to his other businesses to fund property acquisitions. His primary company, Punch Promotions Ltd, held equity exceeding $21 million at the time of his death. His personal assets also included a $2.3 million home in Gee Cross and a modern boxing gym in Hyde.
A Champion's Legacy: Family First
The Manchester City supporter made it his priority to protect his family. His careful planning means his children—Campbell, Millie, and Fearne—will be financially secure. Sources close to the family emphasised that Hatton was acutely aware of the money problems many boxers encounter after leaving the sport and was resolved not to follow that path.
Hatton's career highlights included winning the light-welterweight and welterweight titles, with iconic victories over fighters like Kostya Tszyu and Jose Luis Castillo. He also faced high-profile defeats to Floyd Mayweather Jr in 2007 and Manny Pacquiao in 2009. His services to boxing were recognised with an MBE in 2007.
Beyond the Fortune: A Foundation for Mental Health
Despite his professional and financial success, Hatton battled mental health issues. In October, his family honoured his memory by establishing the Ricky Hatton Foundation. The foundation aims to support mental health services, community projects, and education within sports, encouraging people to speak openly and seek help.
His son, Campbell, highlighted the persistent stigma around men discussing mental health, believing the foundation bearing his father's name will make it safer for men to talk. Mental health leaders associated with the initiative stressed that suicide is the biggest killer of men under 50 but is preventable. A fundraising page for the foundation has already raised over $37,000, as supporters continue to honour the boxer's dual legacy of sporting greatness and compassionate advocacy.
Ricky Hatton's story is thus one of two powerful legacies: a $50 million property empire safeguarding his children's future, and a foundation aimed at saving lives by promoting mental health awareness, ensuring his impact extends far beyond the boxing ring.
