The boxing world is in mourning following the tragic passing of former U.S. Olympic boxer and world title contender Vanes Martirosyan. He was 39 years old.
Martirosyan lost his courageous two-year battle with cancer, a fight he began after being diagnosed with skin cancer in 2023. His family confirmed the heartbreaking news on Sunday through an emotional post on social media, sending waves of grief through the global boxing community.
A Courageous Battle and a Heartbreaking Farewell
Despite undergoing several rounds of chemotherapy, Martirosyan's condition continued to worsen. His diagnosis came five years after his high-profile world title fight against the legendary Gennady Golovkin in 2018.
In a touching tribute, his family shared a statement that read, "Today our hearts are shattered. We are losing an incredible man - a loving husband, a devoted father, a kind soul." They described the permanent void his passing leaves, remembering him as someone with a big heart who was deeply loved.
The statement added, "We love him so much, and we are going to miss him in ways words can't explain... Please keep him in your prayers so his spirit can rest gently and peacefully."
From Olympic Glory to World Title Contention
Martirosyan's boxing career was marked by significant achievements and fierce determination. Born in Armenia and raised in California, he represented the United States at the 2004 Athens Olympics at the young age of 18.
His professional career, spanning from 2005 to 2018, was impressive. Key highlights include:
- Fought 41 professional bouts, winning 36 of them.
- Secured 21 victories by knockout.
- Reached a remarkable 32-0 record before his first major setback.
He challenged for world titles on multiple occasions, facing Demetrius Andrade for the WBO title in 2013 and Erislandy Lara for the WBA and IBO belts in 2016. His final professional fight was his biggest global stage, stepping in on just three weeks' notice to face Gennady Golovkin for the WBC title.
A Legacy of Strength and Heart
Martirosyan's journey in boxing began under the guidance of Hall of Fame trainer Freddie Roach. His Olympic participation in 2004 set him on a clear path toward competing at the world level.
His legacy is one of immense courage, displayed both inside the boxing ring during his professional battles and outside of it during his relentless fight against cancer. Vanes Martirosyan leaves behind a story of strength and heart that will continue to inspire athletes and fans around the world.
