Boxing champion Roy Jones Jr has announced his son has died by suicide.
In a post on X, American boxer Jones, 55, said he was “thankful” he spent the night with his son DeAndre before he died.
A representative said DeAndre was 32 years old, Sky News’ US partner network, NBC, reported.
“I know a lot of people are going through tough times right now, but nothing is worth taking your own life. God gives it and God should be the one to take it away,” Jones, who has held multiple world championships in four weight classes, said.
He asked for privacy and thanked the public for their “love and support”.
Former professional boxer Tony Bellew was one of those who paid tribute in the comments underneath the post, writing: “RIP.”
Podcaster and Dragon’s Den star Steven Bartlett added: “Terribly sorry for your loss. Sending my love to your whole family.”
Jones made boxing history as the first middleweight champion in 106 years to win the heavyweight title and just the second light heavyweight champion to accomplish that feat when he defeated John Ruiz for the WBA title in 2003, according to the International Boxing Hall of Fame.
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He retired in 2018 with a record of 66 wins to nine losses, including 47 knockouts.
He is widely regarded as the top pound-for-pound fighter of his era, and in the 1990s won the title of fighter of the decade by the Boxing Writers Association of America, the Hall of Fame reported.
Jones has five other children, his management said.
Anyone feeling emotionally distressed or suicidal can call Samaritans for help on 116 123 or email [email protected] in the UK. In the US, call the Samaritans branch in your area or 1 (800) 273-TALK.
