
The boxing world is in mourning following the heartbreaking death of Arturo Gatti Jr., the 17-year-old son of late boxing legend Arturo Gatti. Gatti Jr.âs longtime coach, Moe Latif, confirmed the news on Wednesday, October 8, after the teen was found dead in Mexico.
The tragic circumstances mirror the mysterious death of his father, who died in 2009 at the age of 39. Chuck Zito, Gatti Sr.âs former bodyguard, was among the first to share the news publicly in an emotional Instagram post.
âItâs with a heavy heart that I have to say,â¦. R.I.P. to 17-year-old ARTURO GATTI JR.,â Zito wrote. âThe same way they found his Father dead in an apartment in Brazil 16 years ago.â
Zito added, âMy condolences to Arturo Gatti Seniorâs mom, sisters, brothers, and his daughter Sophia.â
Circumstances of Arturo Gatti Jr.âs Death
According to Zito, Gatti Jr. was found hanging in an apartment in Mexico, echoing the manner in which his father was discovered in a Brazilian apartment in 2009. An official cause of death has not yet been confirmed.
Gatti Jr. was reportedly in Mexico with his mother, Amanda Rodrigues, who was also Gatti Sr.âs widow. A neighbor discovered his passing.
The news comes 16 years after Gatti Sr.âs death shocked the sports world. His death was officially ruled a suicide, though Rodrigues was initially suspected of murder before being cleared following an autopsy. Mystery still surrounds the Hall of Fame fighterâs death to this day.
Following online speculation, Latif confirmed the news on social media, writing, âIt is unfortunately not a rumor or a joke. Arturo is gone.â He asked for privacy during the devastating time: âIâd appreciate if you stop reaching out at this time.â
Remembering a Promising Young Fighter
Gatti Jr. had been poised to follow in his fatherâs footsteps, training seriously under Latif and showing early promise in the sport. His passing has left the boxing community reeling.
Boxing News released a statement: âWe are deeply saddened to learn of the tragic passing of Arturo Gatti Jr, who has died at just 17 years old in Mexico. Our thoughts and sincere condolences are with his family and loved ones during this heartbreaking time. May he rest in peace.â
In a 2012 interview with â48 Hours Mystery,â Amanda Rodrigues spoke lovingly about her son, calling him âeverything I asked God forâ and saying he âmakes me complete.â She also noted that her sonâs smile âis the sameâ as his fatherâs.
Gatti Sr. was beloved for his fearless fighting style and was part of one of boxingâs greatest trilogies against Mickey Ward in the early 2000s. He also faced Floyd Mayweather Jr. and Oscar De La Hoya during his career.
The post Boxing Legend’s Son Arturo Gatti Jr. Passes Away at 17 in Circumstances Echoing His Father’s Tragic End appeared first on EntertainmentNow.