BBC boxing pundit Steve Bunce expressed deep emotions following the passing of Ricky Hatton on Radio 5 Live shortly after receiving the news. Hatton, aged 46, was discovered deceased at his residence in Hyde on Sunday morning.
Greater Manchester Police confirmed the finding of a body and clarified that they are not treating the death as suspicious. Bunce, speaking from a hotel in Northern Ireland, extensively discussed the tragic event on the radio after attending a boxing match between Lewis Crocker and Paddy Donovan earlier.
During the on-air discussion, presenter Steve Crossman repeatedly checked if Bunce was comfortable to continue speaking as he became visibly emotional while honoring Hatton. Bunce mentioned, “It’s an incredibly shocking news as he was in a positive phase. He has faced and overcome his mental health issues and addictions.”
“He was gearing up for an exhibition match, and like many fighters, the gym has been his refuge. He was working on improving his physical and mental well-being,” Bunce added.
Reports indicated that Hatton missed his gym session on Friday and failed to show up at a fight the previous night, leading someone to check on him at his residence that morning, resulting in the distressing discovery.
Hatton, who would have turned 47 in October, had been open about his struggles with mental health and substance abuse. He had previously survived suicide attempts and had reconciled with his family after addressing his mental health challenges.
Reflecting further, Bunce remarked, “If this had happened a decade ago when he openly discussed contemplating suicide and was in a dark place, it might have been more understandable, but presently, I am genuinely shocked. It truly amazes me.”
Various figures from the boxing community, including former world heavyweight champion Tyson Fury and Olympic gold medalist Luke Campbell, have paid their respects to Hatton, highlighting his impact on the sport.
Ricky Hatton, survived by his children Millie, Fearne, and Campbell, and granddaughter Lyla, leaves behind a lasting legacy in the world of boxing.