BBC Radio 2 presenter Paddy McGuinness was noticeably emotional as he announced the news of Ricky Hatton’s death while hosting his Sunday morning radio show today

Paddy McGuinness could be heard struggling to fight back tears as he announced the death of his ‘great mate’ Ricky Hatton on his BBC Radio 2 show earlier today.

TV and radio host Paddy, 52, was clearly shocked and upset as he shared the news with listeners as he spoke after playing a string of songs back to back. 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 took a long pause.

“Sending love and thoughts are with his family,” he exhaled deeply, fighting back tears. “God. Ricky mate, wherever you are, this is for you…” Paddy then played Frank Sinatra’s song Blue Moon.

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

Ricky was found dead found dead at his home in Greater Manchester.

The Stockport-born fighter was just 46 years old. A police cordon is currently in place at his residence on Bowlacre Road in Gee Cross, Hyde.

Greater Manchester Police have confirmed the discovery of a body and stated that the death is not being treated as suspicious.

After his radio announcement, Paddy took to his Instagram page to post a tribute to Ricky which consisted of a black and white snap of the iconic boxer followed by a photo of Ricky and Paddy posing with Robbie Williams.

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

Paddy then penned 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 taken part in a number of showbiz projects together over the years including appearances on A Question Of Sport and Soccer Aid. Paddy even partied with Ricky and his then-girlfriend Claire Sweeney at 2024’s BBC Radio 2 In The Park.

Meanwhile, other celebrities have also paid tribute to Ricky including Piers Morgan, who wrote on X: “RIP Ricky ‘The Hitman’ Hatton, 46. Found dead at his home in Manchester, police say no suspicious circumstances. What incredibly sad news.”

Meanwhile, Amir Khan said: “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.”