Ricky Hatton’s mother recalls emotional final hug just three days before boxing champion’s death by suicide at 46

Ricky Hatton’s mother has recalled the final hug she shared with her son, just three days before he died by suicide aged 46. Carol Hatton said she made an unplanned visit to his gym in Hyde after the pair had been involved in an argument.Carol and Ricky’s father, Ray, have spoken publicly for the first time since the former world champion’s death on September 14 last year. They urged people to tell their loved ones they care about them before it is too late. The couple are also calling for a statue of Ricky to be built in Manchester.Carol Hatton remembers her son Ricky Hatton’s final daysCarol Hatton said she visited Ricky Hatton after seeing his car outside the gym. She had not planned to go inside, but decided to see him.The family had been trying to repair their relationship after years of difficulties. Ricky had previously been estranged from his parents for about a decade. He had also spoken openly about his struggles with drug and alcohol addiction and had survived earlier suicide attempts.Carol told ITV News, “I pulled up on the car park because I saw his car. He asked if everything was okay. I said “yeah, everything’s fine”. I said I’d like to see a bit more of him.”She said the meeting ended with a meaningful embrace.“I’m so glad (I got to see him) because nobody knows when it’s the last time you’re going to see somebody”, she added.During the visit, Ricky told his mother that he wanted to see his father the following week. However, he died three days later.Ray said the experience had made him think about how people show love to their families. He encouraged parents, especially fathers, to speak openly to their sons.“You tell your grandkids how much you love them, you tell your wife how much you love them but I think, especially with men, don’t ever be afraid of getting hold of your son and telling him you love him”, Ray said.Ricky’s relationship with his parents had been damaged by a long-running dispute over money and family contact. Despite the disagreement, Carol and Ray were allowed to see his daughter, Millie, for a period.The situation became worse after Ricky’s girlfriend, Jennifer, was not invited to a Christmas Day gathering. Months later, Ricky received letters from his parents’ lawyers about contact with Millie.In a 2013 interview with the Manchester Evening News, Ricky said, “I replied to my parents, through solicitors, and said we did not want them to have contact with Millie.”He also described the family dispute as “a mess” and “bitter and horrible”. The conflict later led to a physical fight between Ricky and his father in a car park.Ray said he had been angry about “all that stuff you’ve written about your mum in that solicitor’s letter”. He punched Ricky, who then hit back before Ray drove away.Despite their painful history, Carol and Ray said they are trying to move forward while keeping Ricky’s memory alive. Carol said they would continue “remembering him and loving him”.Get the latest Sports News and Live updates. Download the TOI app.