The son of legendary boxing champion Arturo Gatti, Arturo Gatti Jr., has died at the age of 17, marking a profound loss for the boxing community and his family. The World Boxing Association (WBA) confirmed the tragic news, noting that the young athlete was found hanging in an apartment in Mexico. The boxing world, including many of Gatti Sr.’s contemporaries and fans, has mourned the passing of the teen, who was just beginning his journey in the sport.
The WBA released a statement on social media, expressing deep sorrow for the loss of Gatti Jr. and recognizing the potential he had as a future boxing star. The statement read, ‘The WBA and the boxing world mourn the passing of Arturo Gatti Jr. His journey was just beginning, yet his spirit will live on — now reunited with his legendary father among the stars.’ This heartfelt message was shared with fans and fellow athletes, many of whom remember Gatti Jr. as a promising talent who once dreamed of competing in the Olympics, like his father.
Chuck Zito, Gatti Sr.’s former bodyguard, also confirmed the young boxer’s death on social media. He described the incident as ‘found hanging in an apartment in Mexico,’ though no further details have been disclosed. The lack of additional information has left many questioning the circumstances of his death, but the family has chosen to keep details private in the wake of this tragedy.
Arturo Gatti Jr. had initially sought to follow in his father’s footsteps with an amateur boxing career, aiming for the Olympics, as reported by ESPN. His father, a four-time world champion, was a formidable presence in the boxing world, known for his epic fights against stars like Oscar De La Hoya and Mickey Ward. Gatti Sr. also had a notable rivalry with Floyd Mayweather Jr., which further cemented his place in boxing history. Despite his father’s legendary status, Gatti Jr. had only just begun his own journey in the sport when he tragically passed away.
The family and boxing community are coming to terms with this heartbreaking loss, as they remember Gatti Jr. as a young man with immense potential and a deep connection to his father’s legacy. His absence leaves a void that will be deeply felt for years to come, as the boxing world continues to honor his memory and the legacy of his father, Arturo Gatti Sr.