Arturo Gatti Jr., Son of Boxing Legend, Dies at 17

The boxing world is mourning the loss of Arturo Gatti Jr., the 17-year-old son of late boxing legend Arturo “Thunder” Gatti, who was found dead in Mexico this week. The young athlete’s death was confirmed by his longtime coach, Moe Latif, and by Gatti Sr.’s former bodyguard, Chuck Zito, who announced the news on social media Wednesday, October 8.

Zito shared the devastating update on Instagram, writing, “It’s with a heavy heart that I have to say, R.I.P. to 17-year-old ARTURO GATTI JR.” He added that Gatti Jr. had died by suicide in Mexico, noting somberly, “The same way they found his father dead in an apartment in Brazil 16 years ago.”

Gatti Sr., a two-division world champion and one of boxing’s most beloved figures, was found dead in July 2009 while on vacation with his wife in Brazil. His death was initially ruled a homicide before being reclassified as a suicide—a conclusion that has remained controversial among fans and within the boxing community.

Zito ended his post by extending his condolences to the Gatti family: “My condolences to Arturo Gatti Senior’s mom, sisters, brothers, and his daughter Sophia.”

Coach Confirms the News

After rumors about the teenager’s death began circulating online, Moe Latif, Gatti Jr.’s longtime coach and mentor, confirmed the tragic news in his own Instagram post.

“It is unfortunately not a rumor or a joke. Arturo is gone,” Latif wrote. “I’d appreciate if you stop reaching out at this time.”

Latif had trained Gatti Jr. since he was a child and had often spoken publicly about his natural talent and work ethic, drawing comparisons to his late father’s tenacity and charisma in the ring.

Gatti Jr. had recently begun competing in youth boxing tournaments and was expected to pursue a professional career in the sport that made his father an international star.

A Family and Legacy Marked by Tragedy

Arturo Gatti Sr. became a household name in the 1990s and early 2000s for his relentless fighting style, heart, and ability to rise from adversity. A Canadian-Italian boxer, Gatti won world titles in two weight divisions and was known for his epic trilogies against Micky Ward. The pair’s first match in 2002 is widely regarded as one of the greatest fights in boxing history.

Gatti’s life outside the ring, however, was fraught with personal turmoil. His death in 2009 shocked the sports world and remains clouded by questions. His widow, Amanda Rodrigues, was briefly arrested in connection with his death but later released after authorities ruled it a suicide by hanging.

In a 2012 interview with 48 Hours Mystery, Amanda spoke lovingly of her son, saying, “He’s everything I asked God for. He makes me complete.” She also shared that Arturo Jr. had inherited his father’s charm and joy, saying his smile “is the same” as his father’s.

Now, 16 years later, the family is once again facing an unthinkable loss.

The Boxing Community Reacts

News of Gatti Jr.’s death has sent shockwaves through the boxing world, where his father’s legacy continues to loom large. Boxing News issued a statement expressing condolences to the Gatti family:

“We are deeply saddened to learn of the tragic passing of Arturo Gatti Jr., who has died at just 17 years old in Mexico. Our thoughts and sincere condolences are with his family and loved ones during this heartbreaking time. May he rest in peace.”

Fans and fellow fighters flooded social media with messages of grief and disbelief, many noting the eerie similarities between Gatti Jr.’s death and that of his father.

Remembering a Promising Future

Although only 17, Gatti Jr. was already carving a path for himself in the boxing world. Videos shared online by his coach and peers show him training with determination and discipline reminiscent of his father’s prime.

Friends described him as “quiet but fierce,” with a deep respect for the sport and a desire to make his father proud. “He had the same fire in his eyes that his dad did,” one fellow boxer posted on X, formerly known as Twitter.

Gatti Jr.’s sudden passing has prompted renewed conversations about mental health awareness in athletics, particularly among young competitors facing the pressures of family legacy and public expectation.

If You or Someone You Know Needs Help

If you or someone you know is struggling with thoughts of suicide, depression, or emotional distress, help is available. You can call or text 988 to reach the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, or chat online at 988lifeline.org, available 24/7.