Paddy McGuiness said Ricky Hatton was a ‘great mate’ (Image: INSTAGRAM Paddy McGuinness)

Paddy McGuinness could be heard struggling to fight back tears as he announced the d3ath of his “great mate” Ricky Hatton on his BBC Radio 2 show earlier today. Television and radio presenter Paddy, 52, was visibly shaken and distressed as he broke the devastating news to his audience following a sequence of tracks played consecutively. He said: “Apologies everyone just had to play a couple of songs back to back there I’ve just learned erm… this terrible news that… a great mate of mine has passed away, Ricky Hatton. Erm..”

Paddy then paused for an extended moment. “Sending love and thoughts are with his family,” he said, breathing heavily whilst battling emotion, reports the Mirror. He added, “God. Ricky mate, wherever you are, this is for you..”

Paddy McGuinness was clearly emotional as he announced the sad news of Ricky Hatton’s d3ath (Image: GETTY)

The presenter then played Frank Sinatra’s Blue Moon.

Ricky was discovered deceased at his residence in Greater Manchester. The Stockport-born boxer was just 46 years of age.

A police cordon remains in position at his property in Hyde.

Greater Manchester Police have verified the discovery of a body and confirmed that the d3ath is not being regarded as suspicious.

Ricky Hatton, Claire Sweeney and Paddy McGuinness at BBC Radio 2 In The Park 2024 (Image: INSTAGRAM Paddy McGuinness)

Following his radio tribute, Paddy took to his Instagram account to share a memorial post for Ricky featuring a monochrome photograph of the legendary boxer alongside an image of Ricky and Paddy with Robbie Williams.

Paddy subsequently wrote in the caption: “World Champion. People’s Champion.

“I’ve had some great times with Ricky over the years. From being out in Vegas to the streets of Manchester, he always had time for everyone.

“Deepest condolences to Ray, Carol, Campbell, Millie, Fearne and all his family. Rest In Greatness champ.”

Paddy and Ricky had collaborated on numerous showbiz ventures throughout the years, including stints on A Question Of Sport and Soccer Aid.

Paddy had even celebrated with Ricky and his then-partner Claire Sweeney at 2024’s BBC Radio 2 In The Park.

Other famous faces have also shared heartfelt tributes to Ricky, with Piers Morgan posting on X: “RIP Ricky ‘The Hitman’ Hatton, 46. Found d3ad at his home in Manchester, police say no suspicious circumstances. What incredibly sad news.”

Amir Khan added: “Today we lost not only one of Britain’s greatest boxers, but a friend, a mentor, a warrior, Ricky Hatton.

“As fighters, we tell ourselves we’re strong – we train, we sweat, we take hits, we get up. But sometimes the hardest fight happens in silence, in the mind. Mental health isn’t weakness. It’s part of being human.

“And we must talk about it. We must reach out. We must lean on each other. Ricky, thank you for everything. For your fights, your moments of glory, your grit. Thank you for pushing us, showing us what’s possible. To everyone reading this: if you’re hurting or struggling, you are not alone. Talk. Reach out. Because we need more light, more compassion, more understanding. Rest well, Ricky. You’ll always have your place in the ring of our memories.”