Sport

Carl Frampton pays tribute to Alejandro Gonzalez Jr after 'tragic' death

Alejandro González Jr was the first person to knockdown Frampton in a professional bout
Alejandro González Jr was the first person to knockdown Frampton in a professional bout Alejandro González Jr was the first person to knockdown Frampton in a professional bout
By Peter Dorman

CARL Frampton has paid tribute to Alejandro Gonzalez Jr, his first opponent in the United States, after reports of the Mexican's death. 

The 23-year-old fighter is believed to have been 'executed' after being found dead near his home in Guadalajara on Friday.

Gonzalez was the first boxer to knockdown Frampton in a professional bout when the two faced off in Texas last year. Frampton survived a second knockdown by 'La Cobríta' before going on to win the bout with a unanimous decision. 

The Tiger's Bay man tweeted: "Just hearing the tragic news about Alejandro Gonzalez Jr. One of the nicest guys I've shared a ring with. RIP Champ"

Frampton's wife, Christine, also paid her respects, tweeting: "Absolutely heartbreaking news about the passing of Alejandro Gonzalez Jr.

"Spoke at length with him in El Paso about our families. So sad."

Gonzalez Jr had won 25 of his 31 career bouts, with 15 of his victories coming by way of knockout.