BBC boxing commentator Steve Bunce expressed deep sorrow following the passing of Ricky Hatton on BBC Radio 5 Live moments after the news broke. Hatton, aged 46, was discovered deceased at his residence in Hyde on Sunday morning.
Greater Manchester Police confirmed the finding of the body and clarified that they are not treating the death as suspicious. Bunce shared his thoughts extensively on the radio while in Northern Ireland, where he was staying at a hotel after attending a boxing match between Lewis Crocker and Paddy Donovan.
In a live discussion, presenter Steve Crossman repeatedly checked on Bunce’s emotional state as he paid tribute to Hatton, who had been in a positive phase despite his past struggles with mental health and addiction issues. Bunce highlighted Hatton’s recent focus on preparing for an upcoming exhibition fight and how the gym had been instrumental in his physical and mental well-being.
Hatton, who would have turned 47 in October, had been open about his mental health challenges and substance abuse battles. Despite surviving suicide attempts and working through his issues, his sudden passing shocked many in the boxing community.
Fellow boxing personalities, including Tyson Fury and Luke Campbell, honored Hatton’s memory with heartfelt messages. Hatton is survived by his children Millie, Fearne, and Campbell, as well as his granddaughter Lyla.
