Mexican Boxer Pedro Antonio "Tony" Rodríguez Found Dead in Arizona Hotel After Fight

The boxing world is mourning the loss of Mexican athlete Pedro Antonio "Tony" Rodríguez, who was found dead in a hotel room in Phoenix, Arizona, shortly after a professional fight. Rodríguez, 37, was reportedly discovered unresponsive following his match on Saturday, July 5, against Philip Vella. The cause of death remains unknown.

His management company posted a message about his passing on social media:

"The Del Sol Boxing family is heartbroken at the death of Pedro Antonio Rodriguez.

Our hearts and thoughts are with his loved ones. Out of respect for his family, please join us in waiting for the local authorities to complete their work and investigation."

Rodríguez, originally from Torreón, Coahuila, had traveled to the U.S. for what would unknowingly become his final appearance in the ring. His fight against Vella took place in Phoenix, Arizona. Although details of the match have not been widely publicized, it appears Rodríguez left the event in stable condition and returned to his hotel alone. According to early reports, he went to sleep and never woke up.

Local authorities in Arizona are investigating the circumstances surrounding his sudden death. As of Tuesday, no foul play has been reported, and officials are waiting for autopsy results to determine the exact cause. Family members and friends have told local media that Rodríguez had been in communication with loved ones shortly before his passing and had not complained of feeling ill or injured.

Rodríguez's death has sparked an outpouring of condolences across social media, particularly within the Mexican boxing community. Fans, fellow fighters, and trainers expressed shock and grief over the unexpected loss. His name quickly began trending on platforms like X (formerly Twitter) as news of his passing spread.

Though not yet a household name internationally, Pedro Antonio "Tony" Rodríguez was steadily gaining recognition in the boxing scene. Known for his discipline and humble background, Rodríguez balanced his athletic career with a day job as a hospital stretcher bearer in Torreón. His dual life — caring for patients by day and battling in the ring by night — earned him respect both inside and outside the sports world.

Rodríguez had experienced a string of losses in recent years, having been defeated in his last seven fights. Despite the setbacks, he continued to train and pursue his career with determination. His work ethic and dedication made him a local inspiration for aspiring athletes in Coahuila and beyond.

As of now, it is unclear whether Rodríguez suffered any medical complications related to the fight or if his death was caused by unrelated health issues. Investigators have not ruled out any possibilities and are working with medical examiners to uncover more information.

The Mexican Boxing Federation has not yet released an official statement but is expected to do so following the outcome of the investigation. Meanwhile, boxing promoters and organizers of the Phoenix event have expressed their condolences to the Rodríguez family and pledged their support during this difficult time.

As the investigation continues, fans and fighters alike remember Tony not just for his battles in the ring, but for his humility, grit, and unwavering spirit.