The boxing world woke up to sad news today, learning of the passing of Martha Saldivar Sulaiman, the beloved mother of WBC president Mauricio Sulaiman. Eight years ago, on January 16, 2014, the WBC president lost his father, Jose Sulaiman, the sanctioning body’s long-time head. Through his social media handles, Mauricio Sulaiman shared heartfelt messages about his mother’s passing.

Jose Sulaiman and Doña Martha Saldivar Sulaiman were married for 42 years, raising six children together. She was a grandmother to fourteen. In his tribute, Sulaiman remembered his mother’s love and dedication, with many fans and prominent figures from the boxing community joining him in this moment of grief. Mauricio Sulaiman took over the mantle of the WBC in February 2014 and has been managing boxing’s preeminent organization effectively ever since.

Honoring Doña Martha Saldivar Sulaiman: The Compassionate Matriarch of Boxing

“Martha has joined Jose, the love of her life, for eternity. Our dear mother Martha has passed away in peace in the company of her loved ones,” said Mauricio Sulaiman. Describing his mother as a gentle and lovable woman, Sulaiman shared that she embraced life with passion and grace. He said she had always put others first with her selflessness, warmth, and empathy.

According to ‘Enfoque Noticias’, Doña Martha Saldivar Sulaiman passed away peacefully on Sunday, August 18, with her loved ones by her side. Mauricio Sulaiman recalled how some of boxing’s renowned champions affectionately called her ‘Mama’. “So many boxers called her “Mama“ as she took them all under her wing, whether it was Tyson or Chavez or an amateur humble kid,” he said.

He concluded the message by mentioning the bereaved family members, including his siblings, extended family, and grandchildren. Per the update available on ‘Fightnews’, Doña Martha Saldivar Sulaiman would be laid to rest at the same place where Mauricio Sulaiman’s father was interred: Panteón Francés de la Piedad cemetery in Mexico City.

United in Grief: A Message of Comfort

Here’s what some notable individuals shared in their messages of condolence:

Offering his support to Mauricio Sulaiman in his time of loss, boxing trainer and owner of ‘The Excelsior Sporting Club’, Scott Murray, expressed his heartfelt condolences and prayed for the family. “Sending you our condolences, deepest sympathies, & prayers, Mauricio 🙏🙏🙏,” he said.

Expressing his deep sympathies, veteran boxing insider Rick Glaser wished for Mauricio Sulaiman to stay strong during this difficult hour. He also recalled Doña Martha Saldivar Sulaiman’s support for her husband. Glaser said, “Mauricio, my sincerest condolences. There’s a great saying & definitely applies to Martha & Jose: “Behind every great Man is a better Woman” Hang strong, Mauricio.”

Former Commonwealth light middleweight champion and IBF middleweight title challenger Michael Zerafa wished for Doña Martha Saldivar Sulaiman to find eternal peace: “May she rest in eternal peace, brother 🙏🏽.”

Cynthia Conte expressed her sympathies to Mauricio Sulaiman and the rest of the family members. Joining the WBC President in his loss, she contended that his mother is now together with his father again. “I’m so sorry for your loss, Mauricio. Condolences to you and your family. Your mother is reunited with your father. May she rest in peace 🤍🕊️🙏🏾, “said the co-founder of ‘Best Women’s Boxing Show’.

Former professional boxer Henry Coyle also offered his condolences to Mauricio Sulaiman and his family. He prayed for Doña Martha Saldivar Sulaiman’s peaceful rest. “My Condolences to you and all your family. May Martha R.I.P.”

According to a piece on ‘Phil Boxing’, Doña Martha Saldivar Sulaiman was born in Ciudad Victoria, Tamaulipas. She played a significant role in supporting her husband, the late Jose Sulaiman, in his passion for boxing.

Despite his frequent travels, she managed the household and raised their six children with care and dedication. Known for her kindness and generosity, she always offered her support and care to boxers from all over the world, making them feel at home. The boxing world deeply misses Doña Martha Saldivar Sulaiman.

On the sad demise of Mauricio Sulaiman’s loving mother, you are invited to share your message in the comments below.