The boxing community is mourning the loss of Jose Santa Cruz, the respected father and trainer of former world champion Leo Santa Cruz. Premier Boxing Champions, who promoted many of Leo`s significant career moments, announced the unfortunate news via social media.
In their statement, PBC expressed deep sadness, saying: “We are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Jose Santa Cruz, beloved father and trainer of former world champion Leo Santa Cruz.
Born in 1958, Jose was the heart of Team Santa Cruz—an unwavering presence in his son’s corner and a true fighter in his own right.”
The statement concluded by sending condolences: “Our thoughts are with the Santa Cruz family during this difficult time. Rest in peace, Jose.”
Born in Mexico in the late 1950s, Jose Santa Cruz later emigrated to California, bringing his four sons with him. He raised his boys with boxing as a central part of their lives, offering a path away from the challenges of life in Compton.
Despite battling significant health issues over the years, Jose`s dedication to his son and the sport never wavered. He attended Leo`s epic first fight against Carl Frampton in New York on July 30, 2016, shortly after undergoing several rounds of chemotherapy and radiation for spine cancer.
By the time of the rematch in January 2017, Jose was firmly back in the corner, supporting Leo as he turned the tables on Frampton and won the return bout. This upturn in health provided a huge boost to Leo and the entire family.
In 2020, as Leo prepared for his fight with Gervonta Davis, the multi-weight world champion revealed that his resilient father had also survived a serious bout with COVID-19, which affected him during the training camp.
Once again, Jose fought through. However, the 67-year-old recently succumbed to the ongoing health struggles he had faced with immense courage, grace, and determination.
