Wilfredo “Bazooka” Gomez, a celebrated figure in the world of boxing and a three-weight world champion, has died at the age of 69. His passing was confirmed by Paco Valcarcel, the former president of the World Boxing Organisation (WBO), who shared the news on social media. Valcarcel expressed his sorrow, stating, "He passed away a few hours ago, the one to whom I owe having entered the great family of international boxing. Rest in peace, my eternal champion Wilfredo ‘Bazooka’ Gomez."

Gomez, known for his exceptional punching power, held world titles in super-bantamweight, featherweight, and super-featherweight categories. Over his illustrious career, he achieved an impressive record of 44 wins out of 48 fights, with a staggering 42 of those victories coming by way of knockout. The World Boxing Council (WBC) also paid tribute to Gomez, highlighting his status as one of the greatest icons in boxing history.

Before his death, Gomez had been hospitalized for two weeks due to respiratory complications. His career was marked by remarkable victories against some of the sport's most formidable opponents. Notable among these was his 1978 bout against Carlos Zarate, where Gomez claimed victory in the fifth round, handing Zarate his first professional defeat after 52 consecutive wins.

Gomez's reign in the super-bantamweight division was particularly noteworthy, as he defended his title 17 times, winning every defense by knockout—a record that the WBC emphasized in their tribute. His career, however, was not without its challenges, as he faced defeats against legendary fighters Salvador Sanchez and Azumah Nelson during his attempts to capture the WBC featherweight title.

From a young age, Gomez showcased his talent, competing at the 1972 Olympic Games at just 15 years old and winning gold at the inaugural World Amateur Championships in Cuba in 1974. His contributions to the sport were recognized with his induction into the International Boxing Hall of Fame in 1995.

The WBC remarked on Gomez's legendary status, noting that his influence extended beyond the boxing ring, leaving a lasting legacy in the sport and his native Puerto Rico. His extraordinary knockout record, along with his historic title defenses and victories over elite fighters, ensures that Wilfredo “Bazooka” Gomez will always be remembered as a celebrated name in boxing history.