Wilfredo Gómez obit

Wilfredo Gómez, Puerto Rican Boxing Legend, Passes Away; WBC and Mauricio Sulaimán Offer Condolences

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Wilfredo Gómez, Puerto Rican Boxing Legend, Passes Away; WBC and Mauricio Sulaimán Offer Condolences

The boxing world and all of Puerto Rico are in mourning following the passing of legendary former world champion and International Boxing Hall of Fame inductee, Wilfredo “Bazooka” Gómez, at the age of 69.

The immortal fighter from Guaynabo, affectionately known as the “Niño de las Monjas,” passed away around 9:00 p.m. after being hospitalized for the past two weeks due to respiratory complications. The somber news was confirmed by his son, Wilfredo Gómez Jr., with the family expected to share further details regarding the funeral services in the coming hours.

In light of this irreparable loss, World Boxing Council (WBC) President Mauricio Sulaimán Saldívar, on behalf of the entire Green and Gold family, extended a heartfelt message of solidarity, comfort, and deepest condolences to his children, family, friends, and the Puerto Rican fans mourning one of the greatest icons in the history of the sport.

Universally recognized as one of the greatest ring legends of all time and a ruthless brawler who holds the historic record of 17 consecutive super bantamweight title defenses—all won by knockout—Wilfredo Gómez leaves behind an indelible legacy both inside and outside the ring.

He is frequently mentioned among the best Puerto Rican boxers of all time by sports journalists and analysts, along with Félix Trinidad, Miguel Cotto, Wilfred Benítez, Esteban De Jesús, Edwin Rosario, and Carlos Ortíz.

Originally from Río Piedras, Gómez is remembered not only for his devastating power and bravery in epic ring battles, but also for the indomitable spirit with which he faced every challenge in life. The WBC family and the international sports community join in prayer for the eternal rest of an immortal champion.