Former boxing world champion in three categories Vilfredo Gomez has died
Vilfredo Gomez died in his 70th year of life, two weeks before his death he was hospitalized due to breathing problems. In 1977-1982, he defended the WBC title 17 times with knockouts
Former world champion in three weight categories and member of the International Boxing Hall of Fame Vilfredo Gomez died on the 70th year of life, the press service of the World Boxing Organization (WBO).
Gomez spent two weeks in hospital before his death due to breathing problems, The Ring notes.
The Puerto Rican performed in the second lightest (up to 55.2 kg), featherweight (up to 57.1 kg) and second featherweight (up to 58.9 kg) weight, owned WBA and WBC belts. In the under 55.2kg category, he held the WBC title for almost six years (since 1977), defending his belt 17 times with knockouts.
In total, Gomez won 44 victories (42 knockouts) in the professional ring, suffered three defeats and finished another fight in a draw.
At the amateur level, Gomez participated in the 1972 Olympics (at the age of 15), and two years later won the world championship.
In 1995 Gomez was inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame.
