American boxer Carson Jones has passed away at the age of 38 after experiencing complications from an esophagus surgery.
Jones was once ranked as No. 4 in the world, winning 44 of his 65 professional contests before stepping away from boxing for health concerns.
The Oklahoma-born fighter had earlier this year told his followers on social media that he was struggling with gastrointestinal issues.
“I finally have surgery on my esophagus on Monday. I cannot wait. This s*** is driving me insane,” Jones posted in January.
“I’ve had a max of three bites of food per day for the last few weeks, with a loss of 35 pounds. Some days, there is no food or drink at all.”
The grim news of Jones’ passing triggered a wave of tributes online including from IBF welterweight champion and former opponent Kell Brook.
“Sad news to the boxing world today, Carson Jones passed away. He was a true veteran to the sport with over 60 pro fights. His fights against @specialkellbrook really put kell on the map.”
