Puerto Rican boxing great Gomez dies at 69

Puerto Rican boxing icon Wilfredo "Bazooka" Gomez has passed away at the age of 69, according to multiple sources. The legendary fighter, who held world titles in three weight classes, had a remarkable professional record of 44 wins in 48 bouts, with 42 victories coming by knockout. Gomez's death was confirmed by former WBO president Paco Valcarcel, who expressed his condolences on social media.

The World Boxing Council (WBC) also mourned the loss of the iconic fighter, hailing him as "one of the greatest icons in the history of the sport." Gomez had been hospitalized for respiratory complications for two weeks prior to his passing. Throughout his career, Gomez showcased his devastating punching power, with notable victories over fighters such as Carlos Zarate, Lupe Pintor, Juan Laporte, and Rocky Lockridge.

He held the WBC super-bantamweight title for 17 consecutive defenses, all by knockout, a record acknowledged by the WBC in its tribute to the champion. Despite facing defeats against two-time world champions Salvador Sanchez and Azumah Nelson, Gomez's legacy as a formidable force in the boxing world remains unchallenged.