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Arturo Gatti Jr.’s sister has issued an update on his cause of death just weeks after the 17-year-old was found dead in an apartment in Mexico. The Context Gatti Jr., the son of late Canadian boxing legend Arturo Gatti, was following in the footsteps of his late father as an up-and-coming boxer. The circumstances surrounding the teen’s death were remarkably similar to that of the welterweight champion, who died by suicide in 2009 at the age of 37. What To Know Earlier this month, Gatti Jr. was found dead in a Mexico City apartment he shared with his mother, Amanda Rodrigues, per CBS Sports. News of his death was first made public by longtime family friend and former bodyguard Chuck Zito. In a now-deleted Instagram post on October 8, he wrote: “It’s with a heavy heart that I have to say… R.I.P. to 17-year-old ARTURO GATTI JR.…The same way they found his Father dead in an apartment in Brazil 16 years ago. My condolences to Arturo Gatti Seniors—Mom, Sisters, Brothers, and his daughter Sophia [sic].” In a major development, Gatti Jr.’s sister, Sofia Gatti, publicly stated through a GoFundMe campaign that the family has received documentation from authorities indicating her brother’s case is being handled as a homicide investigation. Arturo Gatti Jr. smiles in an Instagram photo shared on March 15, 2025. In the inset image, Sofia Gatti issued an update on her brother’s death in a video posted to Rumble. She wrote on the fundraiser page: “We have received documentation from authorities indicating the case is being investigated as a homicide.” She described the family’s use of funds for legal retainers, document requests, travel and the hiring of an independent investigative team to pursue further autopsy and toxicological review. “The next stage requires approximately $16,000 USD to continue vital legal and forensic work—including expanded toxicology, fingerprint testing, and expert consultations—ensuring the case advances through the proper judicial process,” Sofia Gatti continued. “Every contribution helps maintain transparency and accountability while allowing the family to pursue truth, integrity, and justice for Arturo.” The death of Arturo Gatti Sr., while officially ruled a suicide by Brazilian authorities, continues to be disputed by his family and some investigators who allege foul play, arguing discrepancies in evidence and investigative procedure, the Daily Mail reported. What People Are Saying Sofia Gatti previously shared a video update on October 15 via Rumble: “I wasn’t around to fight for my dad and what happened to him, but I am around to fight for junior.” Gatti Jr.’s longtime coach, Moe Latif, posted to his Instagram Story: “It is unfortunately not a rumor or a joke. Arturo is gone. I’d appreciate if you stop reaching out at this time.” Jean Pascal, Haitian-Canadian boxer, said on X: “Sixteen years after losing his father, the world loses another Gatti. The son of a legend two fighters, one legacy, both gone too soon. May they reunite in peace. My heart is heavy…life can be unfair sometimes. I’m sending strength, love, and prayers to his family. May he rest in power, like his father a true warrior.” Professional boxer Jake Paul added on X: “RIP to Arturo Gatti Jr. Very sad to see a young man with so much potential lose his life and do so like his legendary father. May they conquer together up above.” Boxing News shared in a social media statement: “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. The World Boxing Association (WBA) wrote on X: “The WBA and the boxing world mourn the passing of Arturo Gatti Jr. His journey was just beginning, yet his spirit will live on—now reunited with his legendary father among the stars. Our deepest condolences to his family and loved ones.” What Happens Next Authorities continue the active investigation into the circumstances of Gatti Jr.’s death, now officially treated as a homicide according to family-provided documents. The Gatti family has stated their intention to unify legal efforts across Mexico, Canada and the United States. At the time of publication, the GoFundMe has raised over $28,000 from 136 donations with a goal of $45,000. If you or someone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts or mental health crises, the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline in the U.S. can be reached by dialing 988, by texting “988” to the Crisis Text Line at 741741, or online at 988lifeline.org.
