In a tragic turn of events, Turkish super-middleweight boxing prospect Cem Kilic has been found dead at the age of 29. Born in Germany, Kilic relocated to Los Angeles, USA, as a teenager to further his boxing career, a journey that has now been cut tragically short.

Confirmation and Tribute

The news of Kilic’s passing was confirmed by Eyup Gozgec, the president of the Turkish Boxing Federation, on Friday. In a heartfelt tribute to Kilic, Gozgec said, “We have learned the news of the death of one of our former national boxers. We wish patience to the grieving relatives. Rest in peace.”

Kilic’s Boxing Career

Kilic fought 18 times as a professional after making his debut in 2014, and lost just once to America’s Steven Nelson, a stablemate of pound-for-pound star Terence Crawford, in January 2020. This fight came immediately after he beat Martez McGregor on the undercard of Tyson Fury’s win over Tom Schwarz in Las Vegas in 2019. Kilic finished with a record of 17-1, with 11 wins coming by way of knockout. His last fight took place in August 2022 when he won a unanimous decision against Marco Delgado.

Emotional Tribute from Former Manager

Shane Shapiro, Kilic’s former manager who lived with him when he first moved to the US, paid an emotional tribute after learning of his death. Shapiro said, “Never thought I would be writing something like this right now. I am in shock. RIP Cem Kilic, the first fighter that took a chance on me, someone who moved from Germany to Los Angeles, lived with me 7 years and was part of my family. Those who know, know.”

Training at Wild Card Gym

Kilic regularly trained out of the Wild Card Gym, one of America’s best-known gyms thanks to the rise of Manny Pacquiao and Amir Khan under legendary coach Freddie Roach. The Wild Card posted on Instagram following the news of Kilic’s passing, expressing their deep sadness and extending condolences to the Kilic family and all those affected by his passing.

Condolences from WBC President

Mauricio Sulaiman, the president of the World Boxing Council (WBC), also sent his condolences to Kilic’s loved ones in a message posted on social media. Sulaiman wrote, “Our prayers go to the family and friends of Turkish fighter Cem Kilic who passed away during this holiday season. May he rest in peace.”

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