Was Sheikh Ibn Uthaymeen (may Allah have mercy on him) Hanbali, and did he say of himself that he followed the Hanbali madhhab?

Ibn Uthaymeen (may Allah have mercy on him) was originally of the Hanbali madhhab, and he studied the books of the madhhab. This is not objectionable, as adhering to one of the four madhhabs is the common path of scholars, provided there is no fanaticism and that one follows the evidence whenever it becomes apparent. Ibn Uthaymeen relied on evidence, supporting the preponderant opinion with proof. His focus was on the Sunnah, establishing it, and supporting it. May Allah bless his knowledge for his support of the truth and his presentation of the narrations.