Mexican boxer Pedro Antonio Rodriguez Barcenas (15-26-3, 7 KOs) was sadly found dead in his hotel room early on Sunday morning, July 6th, 2025, just hours after losing his latest fight.
Known as “Tony”, Rodriguez was defeated on points by 3-0 prospect Phillip Vella on Saturday night, July 5th in Phoenix.
Rodriguez, born in Durango, Mexico, fought in Phoenix, Arizona, over the weekend at the American Royal Palace.
The clash, titled the ‘Brawl in the Barrio’, was commissioned by the Arizona Boxing and MMA Commission and organised by Del Sol Boxing Promotions.
The 37-year-old was defeated 60-54 over six rounds at super-bantamweight by the unbeaten prospect known as the “Sin City Sicilian”.
Rodriguez had returned to his hotel room after the fight with plans to go out for dinner with other fighters on the card.
However, he never made it to the hotel lobby to meet his mates. He was discovered on Sunday morning when hotel staff entered his room in the early hours after he was absent when his transport arrived to take him to the airport.
Police are investigating his death, as there’s currently no immediate connection to his fight or any pre-existing medical conditions.
Karla Valenzuela, the late boxer’s wife, bravely released this statement, “He called me when his fight ended. Even when the show was over and he left for the hotel, he talked to me, he made a video call.
“He told me that he was going out to buy dinner and that he was coming back because at 3:30am in the morning they were going to pick them up to take them to the airport, that was the only ting I talked to him about.
“I don’t know what really happened, some kind of blow. I am also confused. We have to wait until tomorrow to see what the report says.”
His opponent honourably left a touching tribute to his opponent, “Truly heartbroken to find out this news,” he posted on Instagram. “Thankful to have shared the ring with Pedro for six rounds. My thoughts and prayers are with his family. Rest easy, champion.”
Del Sol Boxing Promotions also paid their respects to Rodriguez, posting this heartfelt message: “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.”
