BOXING legend Erik Morales is mourning the passing of his son Fernando, who has died aged 23.
A heartbroken Morales took to social media on Wednesday to announce the tragic death of his second-born child.
In a tribute to the late Fernando, the 45-year-old wrote: “My little boy was only 23 years old!”
He added: “I love you my Fer that God take care of you and have you in his glory!”
Tributes quickly poured in for the late Fernando, including from World Boxing Council president Mauricio Sulaiman.
A statement from Sulaiman on behalf of the WBC read: “The boxing community of the world joins in prayer and grief for the passing away of Erik Morales’ son Fernando.
“May the grace of God stay close to him and his family during this process.”
Former foe Marco Antonio Barrera also sent a message of support to his countryman.
He tweeted: “My condolences to @terrible100. There are no words. A big hug and a lot of encouragement.
Morales was inundated with messages of condolence from his followers.
One of his followers commented: “May God fill you with strength in this difficult moment champ my deepest condolences.”
Another said: “May God bless his soul and take care of him in his flock. Sorry champion.”
And another said: “Much champion strength. My deepest condolences.”
One told the boxing hero: “Friend I am so sorry.
“I pray for you so that it is as light as possible. And for his soul. May he rest in peace.”
The Morales family have yet to release the cause of Fernando’s tragic passing.
Fernando was the middle of Morales’ three children and is survived by an older brother and a younger sister.
Mexican legend Morales called time on his Hall-of-Fame career in 2012.
The former unified super-featherweight champion is perhaps best remembered for his epic trilogy with Barrera.
El Terrible got the better of Barrera in their first clash, which he won via split decision, but lost their final two meetings via unanimous decision.
The Tijuana titan was due to return to the ring on December 17 for a charity exhibition bout with Orlando Salido in Texas.
Source: Boxing - thesun.co.uk
