Puerto Rican boxing legend Wilfredo ‘Bazooka’ Gomez has died at the age of 69, leaving behind a remarkable legacy as a three-weight world champion.
The World Boxing Council (WBC) confirmed his death in a statement published on October 10, paying tribute to the former champion and expressing condolences to his family, friends and fans across Puerto Rico.
Gomez reportedly died at around 9:00 p.m last night. after spending two weeks in hospital due to respiratory complications. His son, Wilfredo Gomez Jr., confirmed the news, according to the WBC.
The former boxer was renowned for his punching power and his achievements in the ring. He recorded 44 victories in 48 professional fights, with 42 of those wins coming by knockouts.
Gomez won world titles at super-bantamweight, featherweight and super-featherweight. He also established an excellent record of 17 consecutive successful defences of his super-bantamweight title, all ending in knockouts, the WBC said.
Among his notable victories was his fifth-round knockout of Mexican boxer Carlos Zarate, who entered the contest with an unbeaten record of 52 wins. Gomez stopped Zarate in San Juan, Puerto Rico, while defending his WBC super-bantamweight title.
Moreso, Gomez also experienced setbacks against two prominent featherweights, Salvador Sanchez in 1981 and Azumah Nelson in 1984, losing both contests by knockout in challenges for the WBC featherweight title.
Beyond his professional achievements, Gomez represented Puerto Rico as an amateur boxer, competing at the 1972 Olympic Games at the age of 15 before winning gold at the inaugural World Amateur Championships in Cuba in 1974.
He was inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame in 1995, further cementing his place among boxing’s celebrated figures.
In its tribute, the WBC described Gomez as one of the greatest icons in boxing history, recognising his achievements and lasting influence on the sport.
“Universally recognized as one of the greatest ring legends of all time and a ruthless brawler who holds the historic record of 17 consecutive super bantamweight title defenses — all won by knockout — Wilfredo Gomez leaves behind an indelible legacy both inside and outside the ring.”
