Puerto Rican boxing great Wilfredo Gómez dies at 69

Puerto Rican boxing great Wilfredo “Bazooka” Gómez has died at 69, prompting tributes from figures in the sport and public officials. His death was reported on October 11, after he died the previous evening, October 10, according to the available reporting. Gómez’s son, Wilfredo Gómez Jr., confirmed his father’s death on a television program, according to reports. The family had not issued a formal cause of death in the information available. Reports linked Gómez’s recent health problems to respiratory complications, but those reports do not establish an official cause. Former World Boxing Organisation president Paco Valcarcel paid tribute to Gómez on social media, calling him his “eternal champion.” World Boxing Council president Mauricio Sulaiman also remembered the fighter, and the council mourned his death. Puerto Rican lawmakers and other representatives also offered condolences. Gómez was one of boxing’s most accomplished champions, winning world titles in three weight divisions: super bantamweight, featherweight and super featherweight. His professional record was 44 wins, including 42 knockouts, three losses and one draw.