Olympian and World Title Challenger

Vanes “Nightmare” Martirosyan Passes, Age 39!

(November 24th) The boxing world mourns the loss of Vanes Martirosyan, the Armenian-born American boxer and 2004 U.S. Olympian, who passed away on November 23, 2025, at the age of 39, after a courageous two-year battle with a rare and aggressive form of skin cancer.

Born in 1986, Abovyan, Armenia, Martirosyan demonstrated exceptional talent from a young age, winning eight national amateur championships. His amateur career culminated in representing Team USA at the 2004 Summer Olympics in Athens at just 18 years old, where he famously defeated Andre Berto during

Martirosyan turned professional in 2005 and competed until 2018, compiling an impressive record of 36 wins (21 by knockout), 4 losses, and 1 draw across 41 bouts. Throughout his career, he was renowned for his warrior spirit, resilience, and sportsmanship.

He held the WBC Silver Light Middleweight title and challenged for world titles on three occasions, including two attempts at the light middleweight championship in 2013 and 2016. His career featured battles against elite opponents including Erislandy Lara, Demetrius Andrade, Jermell Charlo, and culminated in a 2018 fight against Gennady Golovkin for the unified middleweight titles.

Martirosyan bravely fought his illness, seeking treatment in both Los Angeles and Mexico. His final months were spent surrounded by family and friends, with his longtime trainer Roma Kalantaryan and loved ones at his side.

Martirosyan is survived by his wife, Gaby Tsao, and their two children, son Andrew and daughter Arianna. His family released a statement calling him a "loving husband, a devoted father, [and] a kind soul." The boxing community, including the World Boxing Council and numerous former colleagues, mourns his loss and celebrates his inspiring legacy.

Remembered for his heart, work ethic, kindness, and immense courage both in and out of the ring, Vanes Martirosyan was truly a champion in every sense of the word.

Rest in peace, Vanes Martirosyan—a warrior who inspired all who knew him.