Roger Mayweather with Floyd Mayweather Jr.
Floyd Mayweather Jr. (right) works on his timing with his uncle and trainer Roger Mayweather at the Mayweather Boxing Club in Las Vegas, Aug. 28, 2013. Reuters/Steve Marcus

KEY POINTS

  • Roger Mayweather died at the age of 58
  • Floyd Mayweather's ex-girlfriend passed away days ago
  • Notable boxing figures paid their respects to the legendary trainer

Floyd Mayweather Jr. will have to cope with another devastating loss as his uncle and former trainer Roger passed away on Tuesday at the age of 58 due to complications from diabetes, just a week after the death of Josie Harris - Floyd Jr.’s ex-girlfriend and the mother of his three children.

Roger was also an accomplished fighter having won titles in two weight classes but became more prominent when he took over the corner of his nephew who would eventually become one of the greatest boxers of all time.

"My uncle was one of the most important people in my life inside and outside of the ring," Floyd Jr. said in a statement posted by Lance Pugmire of The Athletic. "Roger was a great champion and one of the best trainers in boxing. Unfortunately, his health was failing him for several years and now he can finally rest in peace.

"Roger meant the world to me, my father Floyd Sr., my uncle Jeff, our whole family, everyone in and around the Mayweather Boxing Gym and the entire boxing world. It is a terrible loss for all of us. We are thankful for all the love and well-wishes we have already received as word traveled about Roger's passing. It helps me to see that he was able to touch so many people through his life in boxing because he gave so much to the sport which was his first and longtime love,” the retired boxing great added.

Mayweather Promotions CEO Leonard Ellerbe has also expressed his tribute to a friend whom he worked with for several years during the peak of Floyd Jr.’s career.

"This is a sad day for the Mayweather Promotions family because that is truly what Roger was to us," he said. "On top of being a phenomenal fighter in his own career, Roger was one of the most essential parts of guiding Floyd to the incredible career he had in becoming the best ever. We hope you keep Floyd and the entire Mayweather family in your thoughts and prayers during this time."

The unfortunate news saddened the world of boxing as notable names and personalities pay their respects to the fight icon who had contributed significantly to the sport.

Boxing