The Mexican boxer Pedro Antonio “Tony” Rodriguez was found dead in his hotel room, a few hours after his last fight in Phoenix in Arizona.

The 37-year-old entered the ring to become his last duel on Saturday evening, adopting the American perspective of Phillip Vella in the scheduled six-signs of Super Bantamweight at the American Royal Palace.

Promoted by Del Sol’s boxing promotions and sanctioned by Arizona Boxing and MMA Commission, the event was settled as “Brawl in the Barrio”.

Rodriguez did not react

Rodriguez lost a competitive fight through a unanimous decision, but after the last bell he did not show external signs of injuries or medical care. Both warriors returned to their hotel rooms after the event, with plans to join others for dinner after a fight.

However, Rodriguez never arrived.

According to local reports, hotel employees increased when they did not check the next morning. After many connections without response to their room, employees entered to say that the boxer did not respond. Emergency services confirmed his death at the scene.

The authorities still have to determine the official cause of death. Apparently, investigators examine whether the fight could play a role in a sudden tragedy.

The wife believes that a blow in battle could play a role

The wife of Rodriguez, Karl Valenzuela, publicly talked about her last moments with her husband, revealing that they had a phone call soon after the fight.

“He called me when his fight was over,” she said. “He made a video conversation, told me that he was going to eat dinner and then he would return to the hotel. They were to leave at 3:30 to the airport. It was the last one I heard from him.”

Valenzuela said she was looking for an answer.

“I don’t know what really happened, but I think that maybe he had a blow to the fight. I’m also confused. We have to wait until tomorrow to see what the report says.”

Del Sol Boxing, opponent of Vella Pay Tribute

Del Sol Boxing Promotions expressed sadness in a cordial statement after the death of a warrior:

“Boxing family del Sol is broken after the death of Pedro Antonio Rodriguez. Our hearts and thoughts are with his loved ones. Out of respect for his family, join us, waiting for the local authorities to finish their work and investigation.”

Rodriguez’s opponent, Phillip Vella, also made respect in social media:

“A really broken heart to find out about this message. Grateful for sharing the ring from Pedro for six rounds. My thoughts and prayers are with his family. Rest, master.”

A respected Ring Guard

Rodriguez, whose professional record was 15-26-3, was widely considered to be a respected guard. Rodriguez has respect as an experienced warrior who tests growing prospects such as Vella.

Although this is never a title, Rodriguez’s career embodied the endurance and reliability in a demanding level of sport. Rodriguez has gained respect throughout Mexico and the United States for his professionalism, immunity and willingness to fight anyone anywhere.

In progress

Since the publication, the Maricopa Medical Examinator Office has not published the official cause of death. It is expected that the full report on autopsy and toxicology will determine whether the injury associated with the ring has contributed to the result.

WBN expands its deepest condolences to the family, friends and supporters of Pedro Antonio Rodriguez at this tough time.

About the author

Phil Jay He is an experienced boxing journalist with over 15 years of experience covering the global fight scene. How The editor -in -chief of World Boxing News since 2010Jay conducted interviews with dozens of world champions and reported the ring to the largest boxing nights. [View all articles by Phil Jay] And find out more about his work in combat sports journalism.

Be in advance in boxing messages

Subscribe to free Bulletin WBN And receive trusted, professionally reported boxing updates, exclusive interviews and combat analysis supplied straight to your inbox every day.

[Follow WBN on Linktree] more.