BBC News halted for 'incredibly sad' news of Ricky Hatton's death

Samantha Simmonds halted BBC News to deliver breaking news of Ricky Hatton's death.

She told viewers: "Now some breaking news to bring you and the British boxer Ricky Hatton has died at the age of 46. Let's cross live to BBC Sport and Hugh Ferris."

Hugh began: "Samantha, thank you very much indeed. It's incredibly sad news from the world of boxing this afternoon. Aged just 46, Ricky Hatton, known to his fans as the Hitman has passed away.

"He was found dead at his home, we understand. He was due to attend the fight of one of his fighters, he'd been training, last night and when he didn't turn up at that event, concern was raised.

"He has now been found dead at his home at the age of 46."

He continued: "He came to British prominence when he won the WWBU title and he held that title for another four years."

A statement from the police read: "Officers were called by a member of the public to attend Bowlacre Road, Hyde, Tameside, at 6:45am today where they found the body of a 46-year-old man. There are not currently believed to be any suspicious circumstances."

Tributes have already poured in from the celebrity world as Tyson Fury posted on Instagram : "Rip to the legend @rickyhatton may he rip. There will only ever be 1 Ricky hatton. can't believe this so young."

Meanwhile, Amir Khan shared on X: "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."