In the heart of the boxing world, tragedy struck with a cruelty and untimely hand. September 15, will forever be etched as a somber day, marked by the loss of a revered figure in sport. Diego Arua, not only a distinguished but also a devoted husband, found himself in throes of destiny during a pivotal moment in his wife Sabrina Perez’s career.
Arua was at the ringside, supporting Sabrina as fearlessly defended her interim featherweight title against Skye Nicolson in Tijuna, Mexico. He felt a sudden sharp pain gripping Diego’s chest, and he was rushed to QDEP Hospital, where he unfortunately passed away.
Arua’s Sudden Demise Shocks the World
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
Auditorio Municipal Fausto Gutierrez was left in a state of disbelief as the coach collapsed and was swiftly rushed to the hospital. Despite the best efforts of the medical professionals, they could not revive Arua and he was pronounced dead shortly after 9:30 PM. WBC president Mauricio Suleiman, with a heavy heart, announced the unfortunate news, “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”
Sabrina Parez was absent from the ring during the decision announcement, as the sudden turn of events understandably devastated her. Skye Nicolson won the interim featherweight title unanimously with 99-91, 98-92, and 97-93. Nicolson’s career-long manager said, “Victory overshadowed by tragic passing Team Perez coach Diego [Arrua] during the fight“. The emotional weight of the loss was felt not only by those in attendance but also by fans around the world following Arrua’s coaching career.
Boxing Community Shared Their Heartfelt Condolences
The news reverberated throughout the boxing community, with an outpouring of love and support for Perez’s family. Promoter Matchroom Boxing also posted a tribute on social media saying their thoughts and condolences are with her and her loved ones, “RIP Diego. Our thoughts and condolences are with Sabrina Perez and your loved ones”.
Skye Nicolson also conveyed her condolences to Sabrina
Today I’m leaving Tijuana with a heavy heart. All of my thoughts and prayers are with Sabrina Pérez and her family during this incredibly painful and horrible time. My heart is broken for this warrior and I can’t even imagine what she is going through. pic.twitter.com/VqV2hMkM90
— Skye Nicolson (@skyebnic) September 16, 2023
Life is so unpredictable indeed. Here is Sabrina Perez's husband Diego Arua less than 30 seconds before he collapsed coaching her wife until his last second of his life.
RIP Coach Diego Arua! 🙏 pic.twitter.com/7TvcB4ekyc
— OLE (@ajoaquinarieta) September 16, 2023
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
Some tragic news overnight…
Diego Arua, the coach of Sabrina Perez, tragically suffered a heart attack following her defeat to Skye Nicolson and passed away in hospital a short time later.
Our thoughts are condolences are with his close family & friends.
Rest in peace 🌹 pic.twitter.com/7xfHr4fbQ4
— IFL TV (@IFLTV) September 16, 2023
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
The tragic incident cast a shadow over the event in Mexico. Diego Arua leaves behind a legacy of dedication and passion for the sport of boxing. His untimely death serves as a reminder of the emotional and physical toll that accompanies the world of professional boxing, where the line between triumph and tragedy is razor-thin.
Watch Story: Woman Tries to Play Professional Basketball and Instantly Regrets it After her Leg Snaps