Mexican boxer Pedro Antonio “Tony” Rodriguez was found dead in a hotel room in Phoenix, Arizona, on Sunday, July 6. The death occurred a few hours after participating in a professional boxing event held the night before as part of the “Brawl in the Barrio” event.
Tony Rodríguez, 37, originally from Gómez Palacio, Durango, alternated his passion for boxing with his work as a stretcher-bearer at the Mexican Social Security Institute(IMSS). He was a man known for his dedication both in the ring and in the medical field, where he also left his mark.
Details of the combat and subsequent moment
Tony Rodriguez’s most recent fight was against American Phillip Vella, in a six round bout that ended in a unanimous decision defeat for the Mexican.
After the fight, he went to the hotel with other boxers and had one last communication with his wife, to whom he said he would go out to buy some dinner before returning to rest.
The next morning, when he did not go downstairs to take the shuttle to the airport, the hotel staff came to his room,
He was found without vital signs.
At this time, Arizona coroner’s officials have not determined the official cause of death or whether there is any connection between his death and the fight.
Family seeks answers and justice
Lo encontraron sin signos vitales
His wife, Karla Valenzuela, stated that the last time she spoke to him was after the fight.
In that video call, Tony Rodriguez told him that he would be back at the hotel soon.
There has been no further news since then.
The family is awaiting the results of the autopsy to clarify the circumstances of the case and obtain concrete answers.
In addition, family members and relatives have initiated the necessary procedures for the repatriation of the body to Mexico.
This could take several days due to the legal processes in the United States.
At the same time, a collection has been started to cover funeral and transportation costs.
Reactions from the boxing world
Buzzy
The news of Tony Rodríguez’s death generated consternation in the boxing community, which expressed public condolences and acknowledged his dedication to the sport.
His rival in the last fight also mourned the loss and dedicated a message of respect to him.
At the IMSS, colleagues and friends remembered his human and professional qualities, and highlighted the difficulty of balancing a demanding work life with an active sports career.
The sudden death of Tony Rodriguez has reopened the debate on the safety and medical follow-up that professional boxers should receive.
Especially those who compete outside their country and without major sponsorships.
For more information, visit QuéOnnda.com.
