Ricky Hatton's friend's emotional reaction live on air to boxer's death aged 46

Steve Bunce delivered an emotional tribute to boxing legend Ricky Hatton live on radio just moments after news of his close friend's death was announced. The sporting icon was discovered dead at his Manchester residence last month.

The boxing community was plunged into grief in September when it emerged that the former two-weight world champion had died at the age of 46. His funeral service will take place on Friday at Manchester Cathedral. BBC pundit Bunce was broadcasting when confirmation of Hatton's passing came through, and he proceeded to pay a heartfelt tribute to the departed fighter. Despite being offered several opportunities to halt the programme, Bunce continued whilst clearly struggling with his emotions.

"It's an unbelievably shocking piece of news because he was in a really good place. He's had some troubles, Rick. I mean, he's talked about his mental health problems," said Bunce on Radio 5 Live.

"He's talked about his addictions; he's addressed them, faced them and attacked them and solved them. He was preparing for an exhibition fight; like it is for so many fighters, the gym's been his salvation. He was getting his body and his head in a better place.

"Apparently, talking to people, he didn't show up on Friday at the gym, and he was meant to be at a fight last night, and he didn't show up, and someone went to his house this morning... It is shocking news.

"Had it been 10 years ago, when he talked openly about considering ending his life, had it been 10 years ago when he was in one of the darkest places any man can be, it would have been, I guess, understandable. But at the moment, I'm genuinely shocked by it. I mean, genuinely, I'm amazed by it."

Supporters and mourners are urged to pay their respects by gathering along the streets leading to Manchester Cathedral on Friday during Hatton's funeral cortege. The route is anticipated to commence at Cheshire Cheese on Stockport Road in Hyde, travelling past numerous iconic landmarks throughout the city.

There will be a brief stop at Harehill Tavern and The New Inn, where doves will be released, before continuing to Hatton's gymnasium. It will then travel past Hyde Town Hall, Betta Bodies Gym and the AO Arena before arriving at the cathedral.

After a private memorial service, the procession will continue to the Etihad Stadium, home of Hatton's cherished club Manchester City. Speaking to ITV last week, Hatton's son Campbell also expressed his shock at his father's death. He said: "We are absolutely heartbroken - it was so unexpected.

"We had so many plans coming up, so it has knocked us for six, but obviously, we are trying to be there for each other. The outpouring of support from absolutely everyone has been amazing, so that's helping us through a lot - but yes, absolutely heartbroken."