In the world of boxing, where triumph and tragedy often coexist, the untimely demise of Turkish middleweight Cem Kilic has cast a somber shadow. The boxing world is grieving the untimely death of Turkish super middleweight Cem Kilic, who passed away this holiday season at the young age of 29.
Cem Kilic earlier fought on Tyson Fury vs Tom Schwarz undercard against Martez Mcgregor back in 2019. As boxing fans grieve the loss of a promising athlete, the battles Kilic faced—both against substance addiction and mental health issues—was what ultimately caused his demise.
Kilic loses battle against substance addiction and mental health issues
The shocking news of the Turkish boxer who died at just 29 years of age has saddened the whole boxing community. An apparent drug overdose was the cause of his death, as Kilic battled substance addiction and mental health issues for several years.
“We have learned the news of the death of one of our former national boxers,” Eyup Gozgec, president of the Turkish Boxing Federation, announced on Friday. “We wish patience to the grieving relatives. Rest in peace.”
Cem Kilic had a professional boxing record of 17-1-0 with 11 knockouts. The top fighter made his professional debut in 2014 and featured on Fury vs Schwarz undercard in 2019 and knocked out Martez in the 8th round to move his record to 14-0.
Boxing fans grieve loss of Turkish middleweight Cem Kilic
Boxing fans got shocked after hearing about the demise of the young and talented boxer. A lot of fans took to X and posted their condolences for Cem. Among those devastated by the news was Shane Shapiro, a rising boxing manager whose first client was Kilic.
“Never thought I would be writing something like this right now,” said Shapiro. “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.”
“Me and Cem were always side by side… we had so many highs and lows, and didn’t always see eye to eye, but the memories we made together will never fade. You will always be remembered… RIP “Champ” Cem Kilic. We went to war together.”
In a world of boxing where emotions and spirits always ride on the higher end, the news of Cem Kilic’s demise has shaken the community and left them mourning in the holiday season.
