A shocking news story rocked the world of Mexican boxing this Sunday. Fighter Pedro Antonio ‘Tony’ Rodríguez Bárcenas, 37 years old and originally from Gómez Palacio, Durango, was found dead in his hotel room in Phoenix, Arizona, just hours after stepping into the ring for an event called Pelea en el Barrio.

The six-round fight against American opponent Phillip Vella marked the final chapter in a career defined by perseverance. Rodríguez, who balanced his boxing career with his work as a stretcher-bearer at the IMSS, had traveled to the U.S. to participate in the event organized by Del Sol Boxing Promotions. The bout was overseen by the Arizona Boxing and MMA Commission.

According to his wife, Karla Valenzuela, the boxer contacted her via video call after the match. He planned to have dinner with other fighters and return later to the hotel to rest before flying back to Mexico. However, he never showed up in the hotel lobby nor responded to calls from his team. He was found lifeless on Sunday morning. Local authorities have launched an investigation and have not ruled out complications related to the bout.

A Ring Warrior Who Fought Outside the Spotlight

Tony Rodríguez made his professional debut in 2007 and had a turbulent career, ending with a record of 15 wins (7 by knockout), 25 losses, and 3 draws, according to BoxRec. His career remained largely out of the spotlight, as he was not affiliated with any major promoter. He arranged his own fights, trained on his own, and traveled frequently to places like the United States, Puerto Rico, and the Philippines in search of better financial opportunities.

In 2014, he faced future world champion Luis ‘Pantera’ Nery, losing by knockout in the third round. Though he never became a media figure, he was remembered by colleagues and trainers as a dedicated, honest, and hardworking professional.

His last fight in Phoenix was only his second bout after six years of inactivity. Now, his wife and three children face a harsh new reality as the Mexican boxing community mourns the loss of one of its unsung warriors.

Fighter Phillip Vella, Rodríguez’s last opponent, shared his condolences on social media, describing the Mexican as “a brave man and a worthy opponent.” The boxing world now respectfully awaits the official report on the cause of death, which has yet to be determined.