Tragic Loss Strikes Boxing World: Diego Arua Passes Away After Heart Attack
The boxing community mourns the loss of Diego Arua, a beloved trainer whose life was tragically cut short by a sudden heart attack during a match in Tijuana, Mexico. Diego Arua, not just a coach but also the husband of fighter Sabrina Perez, collapsed unexpectedly while providing instructions to Perez during her fight against Skye Nicolson. The match, which saw Nicolson clinch victory and become the new interim WBC featherweight champion, was overshadowed by the heart-wrenching incident that unfolded in the ring.
In the nail-biting ninth round of the match, Diego Arua, seemingly in good spirits as he guided Perez from his stool, suddenly collapsed to the ground, sending shockwaves through the arena. Despite immediate medical attention and efforts to save him, Arua tragically succumbed to the heart attack, leaving the boxing world reeling with grief.
WBC president Mauricio Sulaiman expressed profound sorrow over the loss, acknowledging the valiant efforts of the medical team but ultimately lamenting the passing of the 58-year-old coach. The news rippled across social media platforms, with an outpouring of condolences flooding in for Sabrina Perez and the Arua family.
Boxing promoter Eddie Hearn, who was present at the match, recounted the harrowing moment when Diego Arua collapsed, emphasizing the severity of the situation and extending heartfelt sympathies to Perez, the Arua family, and all affected by the tragedy. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the unpredictable nature of sports and the fragility of life, leaving behind a somber atmosphere in the boxing community.
As the world mourns the loss of Diego Arua, tributes pour in from all corners, celebrating his dedication to the sport and the indelible mark he left on those he coached. His legacy will endure through the memories he created and the lives he touched, serving as an inspiration to aspiring boxers and trainers alike.
He mentioned that the medical team did everything they could in order to save his life, writing:
“It is with deep sadness that we have been informed of the sudden death of Argentine coach Diego Arua, who suffered a devastating heart attack during the Sabrina Pérez fight in Tijuana. The medical services did everything possible and he died at the QDEP general hospital.” [Translated]
He described what he witnessed and mentioned that he is keeping the trainer’s family in his thoughts and prayers, saying:
“Sabrina Perez’s trainer collapsed right next to us. You know, you could see that obviously he was having severe problems and unfortunately passed away…Tragic set of events. Obviously, our thoughts and prayers go out to Sabrina Perez and the trainer and his team, and everybody in the families. It was heartbreaking to see.” [0:10 – 0:35]