BBC boxing analyst 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 do not consider the death as suspicious. Bunce shared his thoughts on the radio while in Northern Ireland, having recently attended a match between Lewis Crocker and Paddy Donovan.
In a heartfelt conversation on-air, host Steve Crossman checked in multiple times to ensure Bunce was comfortable continuing, as he became visibly emotional while paying his respects. Bunce reflected, “It’s an incredibly shocking piece of news because he was in a really good place.”
“He’s encountered struggles, Rick. He openly discussed his mental health challenges, his addictions; he confronted them, faced them head-on, and overcame them,” Bunce elaborated.
“He was gearing up for an exhibition fight; as is often the case for many fighters, the gym has been his sanctuary. He was working on improving his physical and mental well-being.”
“Reportedly, he didn’t show up at the gym on Friday, and he missed a fight last night; someone went to his home this morning… It’s truly shocking news.”
Hatton, who would have turned 47 in October, had been transparent about his battles with mental health issues and substance abuse. He had survived suicide attempts and reconciled with his family after addressing his mental health struggles.
Bunce added, “If this had happened 10 years ago when he openly discussed contemplating suicide, when he was in one of the darkest places a person can be, it would have been somewhat understandable. But at this moment, I’m genuinely taken aback by it. I mean, genuinely, I’m stunned by it.”
Various figures from the boxing world have also paid their respects to Hatton. Former world heavyweight champion Tyson Fury honored him, while Olympic gold medalist Luke Campbell described Hatton as an inspiration and a boxing legend.
At 46 years old, Hatton leaves behind his children Millie, Fearne, and Campbell, as well as his granddaughter Lyla.