Memorial Service on December 1
The boxing world was shattered by the sad and shocking news that Olympian and champ Vanes Martirosyan passed away on November 23 after a valiant battle against skin cancer. The popular Armenian-American fighter was a devoted family man who leaves behind his wife Gaby and their two children Andrew and Ariana. He was just 39 years old. The pride of Glendale, California will be laid to rest on December 1 beginning with a memorial service at the St. Leon Armenian Cathedral, followed by his burial at Forest Lawn.
During his pro career, the prizefighter known as the “Nightmare,” amassed a record of 36 wins with 21 knockouts, four defeats and one draw. He was also a blue chip amateur as a national champion and Golden Gloves champ. And at 18 years old, he represented the United States in the 2004 Olympic Games.
As word spread about the heartbreaking loss, many of his fellow fighters and friends shared their thoughts about what a true warrior Vanes Martirosyan was. Everyone was in disbelief that he had died after fighting so hard against this vicious and rare form of skin cancer.
I first met Vanes around town at media workouts, gym events and community gatherings. He was always friendly, considerate and respectful. I had also met his father Norik and his younger brother Vic (a pro boxer too). I watched both Vanes and Vic fight live at events in Los Angeles, including Vanes’ very last match versus Gennady Golovkin in the city of Carson. His family was well liked and well known in Southern California.
Condolences to his family and friends on the loss of this beloved fighter. His beautiful wife and kids have handled his passing with class, strength and dignity during this heartbreaking time. Posted in the family’s Instagram stories were messages of love and gratitude that answered some of the questions people had.
“Many of you have been asking about Vanes’ condition, so I want to share this with love and respect. Vanes fought with everything he had. We went to many doctors, sent his case to specialists in different places, and tried every option available.
He had a very rare and extremely aggressive form of skin cancer that started in the groin area and spread very quickly to his lymph nodes and bones. There was no cure…
Only God knows why this happened to Vanes when he was so full of love, so young, and with such a strong desire to live.
Thank you to every person who keeps in their heart during this painful time. Your prayers mean more than you could ever imagine.”
Please keep his family, friends, loved ones and boxing pals in your thoughts as we all mourn the passing of this brave champion.
I will remember his with his fist held up in victory. Rest in peace, Vanes. You will not be forgotten.