FORMER four-time cruiserweight boxing world champion Carlos De Leon has died aged 60.
The Puerto Rican legend passed away just hours into 2020 at his home in Buffalo, New York.
Carlos De Leon (left, battling Johnny Nelson) has died aged 60Credit: PA:Press Association
He had battled a number of health issues in recent years, but it has been reported the official cause of death was due to a cardiac arrest.
“Sugar” retired in 1995 with a record of 53-8-1 (33Kos).
De Leon was born in Trujillo Alto, Puerto Rico on May 3, 1959 and went on to become a national hero as he dethroned WBC champ Marvin Camel in 1980.
Mauricio Sulaiman, president of the WBC and whose late father Jose presided over the governing body for each of De Leon’s title reigns, paid tribute to the late fighter.
He said: “The WBC boxing family is sad to report the sudden passing away of one of the greatest cruiser weight champions, Carlos De Leon, we join his family in grief. May he Rest In Peace. Adiós Campeón.”
He etched his name into history a further three times, firstly becoming a two-time cruiserweight champ in 1983.
He won the crown for a third time in March 1986 and held it for two years until he suffered a knockout loss to the legendary Evander Holyfield.
That was Holyfield’s last ever fight at the weight, allowing De Leon to go on and win the belt for a fourth time.
Evander Holyfield (L) lands a punch to Carlos De LeonCredit: Getty
He lost it via DQ to Massimiliano Duran in July 1990 and attempted to move up to heavyweight with mixed joy until hanging up his gloves in 1995.
De Leon then turned to coaching the next generation within the Buffalo area.
He played a role in the development of 2000 Olympian and former title challenger Orlando Cruz and former junior flyweight titlist Angel ‘Tito’ Acosta.
Source: Boxing - thesun.co.uk
