TMZ: Roger Mayweather, Former World Champion Boxer & Trainer for His Nephew Floyd Mayweather Jr, Dies at 58
"It is a terrible loss for all of us," according to Floyd Mayweather whose uncle and boxing trainer, Roger Mayweather has died due to his declining health.
In the heels of the death of Floyd Mayweather’s ex-girlfriend, a famous close relative of his has reportedly died.
Roger Mayweather, Floyd’s uncle and boxing trainer passed away at the age of 58 due to his long-term battle with diabetes, according to a message from the decorated boxer through his promotional company, Mayweather Promotions.
Floyd Mayweather at the AT&T Stadium in March 2019. | Photo: Getty Images
FLOYD'S MESSAGE
“My uncle was one of the most important people in my life inside and outside of the ring,” the statement read. It also said,
“Roger was a great champion and one of the best trainers in boxing. Unfortunately, his health was failing him for several years and now he can finally rest in peace.”
Floyd’s message went on to say that Roger was dear to his family including his father, Floyd Mayweather Sr. and his uncle Jeff. “It is a terrible loss for all of us,” he adds.
Roger Mayweather and his nephew, Floyd Mayweather, Jr. during a workout session at the Mayweather Boxing Club in Las Vegas in May 2015. | Photo: Getty Images
FAMOUS BOXER TURNED TRAINER
Roger, like his other family members, was a boxer who went up against the likes of Julio Cesar Chavez and Ray “Boom Boom” Mancini. Known as the Black Mamba, he won the WBA and Lineal super-featherweight titles in 1983 and the WBC light-welterweight belt in 1987. He won 59 of his 72 career fights.
In 2015, Floyd revealed his uncle had lost a lot of memory and he attributed it to boxing
Roger was also part of Floyd’s training team and only stepped back when Floyd’s father decided to coach his son. In 2000, he resumed training Floyd until 2012 when the young Mayweather became one of the most decorated boxers of all time.
Roger Mayweather celebrating his victory over Harold Brazier in Las Vegas in June 1988. | Photo: Getty Images
HIS DECLINING HEALTH
Unfortunately, Roger’s health had been declining through the years and he also suffered from diabetes. In 2015, Floyd revealed his uncle had lost a lot of memory and he attributed it to boxing.
He recalled instances when Roger would just wander off. He once walked 20 miles from the MGM Grand to his home and had a breakdown before an induction ceremony. A year later, Roger went missing and with the help of authorities was returned to his family the following day.
ANOTHER DEATH IN FLOYD'S MIDST
Floyd is reportedly heartbroken over the loss of his uncle which came at a time when he’s still grieving the passing of his ex-girlfriend, Josie Harris.
Josie was the mother of Floyd’s three children. She was discovered dead inside her car outside her home last week. Authorities have ruled out suicide and drugs but are still trying to determine the cause of her death.
In spite of their turbulent past which saw Josie accusing Floyd of domestic abuse, the professional boxer took to his Instagram to pay tribute to her in several posts.