The boxing world has been left in shock following the sudden death of Ricky Hatton, who was found at his home in Hyde, Greater Manchester, on Sunday morning. Police confirmed the discovery of the 46-year-old’s body but stressed that the death is not being treated as suspicious.
BBC boxing pundit Steve Bunce reacted live on Radio 5 Live after hearing the devastating news. Speaking from a hotel in Northern Ireland, just hours after attending the Lewis Crocker vs. Paddy Donovan fight, Bunce struggled to contain his emotions. Presenter Steve Crossman repeatedly checked if he was able to continue, as Bunce admitted: “It’s an unbelievably shocking piece of news because he was in a really good place.”
Bunce reflected on Hatton’s well-documented struggles, saying: “He’s had his troubles—his mental health, his addictions—but he faced them and solved them. The gym had become his salvation, and he was preparing for an exhibition fight. He was getting his body and his head in a better place.”
The pundit revealed worrying signs had emerged in Hatton’s final days. “Apparently, he didn’t show up on Friday at the gym. He was meant to be at a fight last night, and he didn’t show up. Someone went to his house this morning… It is shocking news.”
Hatton, who would have turned 47 next month, had been candid in the past about surviving suicide attempts and reconciling with his family after years of mental health battles. Bunce admitted the news was even harder to take given Hatton’s progress. “Had it been 10 years ago, when he was in the darkest place any man can be, it would have been understandable. But right now, I’m genuinely shocked. I’m amazed by it.”
Tributes have since poured in. Tyson Fury shared photos with Hatton and wrote: “RIP to the legend. There will only ever be one Ricky Hatton. Can’t believe this—so young.” Olympic gold medalist Luke Campbell described him as both “an inspiration” and “a legend in the world of boxing.”
Hatton leaves behind his children Millie, Fearne, and Campbell, as well as his granddaughter Lyla. His death has left an irreplaceable void in British sport.
