The boxing world is mourning the loss of Vanes Martirosyan, the 2004 U.S. Olympian and former world title challenger, who died on Sunday at the age of 39 following a two-year battle with skin cancer. His passing was confirmed by WBC president Mauricio Sulaiman and his publicist Bernie Bahrmasel.
Martirosyan boxed professionally from 2005 to 2018, compiled a record of 36-5 (21 KOs) and challenged for world titles three times. His final appearance came in 2018, when he stepped in on short notice and was stopped in two rounds by unified middleweight champion Gennadiy Golovkin. Before that, he built one of the strongest résumés in the junior middleweight division, going undefeated in his first 34 bouts and competing against the sport’s elite.
Born in Abovyan, Armenia, and later based in Glendale, California, Martirosyan was a standout amateur. He earned his Olympic berth by defeating Andre Berto in the qualifiers, representing the U.S. at the 2004 Athens Games and reaching the second round before dropping a decision to Cuba’s Lorenzo Aragon. As a professional, he fought top names like Demetrius Andrade, Jermell Charlo, and Erislandy Lara - with all three of his career defeats prior to Golovkin coming against world champions. Martirosyan also claimed notable victories over former titleholders Kassim Ouma and Ishe Smith, and he won the WBC Silver title in 2012.
Sulaiman remembered Martirosyan as more than just a talented fighter, calling him a “dear friend” and noting his generosity, including his support for Israel Vazquez’s family despite facing personal hardship. The Wild Card Boxing Club, where Martirosyan trained for much of his career, also paid tribute, honoring him as a father, husband, and cherished member of their community.
In one of his last interviews, published in October 2024, Martirosyan spoke openly about his battle with squamous cell carcinoma. He expressed gratitude for the encouragement he received, saying the messages from supporters helped keep him going. His words, like his career, reflected resilience, humility, and heart - qualities for which he will long be remembered.
Image Credit: Getty Images