It’s with a heavy heart that the World Boxing Association regrets to announce the passing of its President Emeritus, Francisco Gilberto Mendoza, Friday afternoon in Caracas, Venezuela, after a long battle with cancer.

At the 94th WBA Convention held in Panama last December, Sr. Mendoza resigned as WBA President due to poor health, a position he held since 1982, .

Always kind, always smiling, always ready to extend a helping hand to whomever supports our sport, the passing of Gilberto Mendoza is a sad time for us all.

Please include the Mendoza and Alvarado families in your prayers during this difficult time.

The wake for Gilberto Mendoza will be held on Sunday, March 13, at the Imperial Chapel, Imperial Funeral, Av Los Jabillos, in La Florida, Caracas, Venezuela, at 8:00 am.

This article was penned by the author who is not related to the WBA and the statements, expressions or opinions referenced herein are that of the author alone and not the WBA.