Uncle Receives Kidney From Fallen Boxer

By Marcus Gilmer in News on Nov 24, 2009 6:40PM

Today, there's a bittersweet addendum to the tragic story of Chicago boxer Francisco "Paco" Rodriguez who died late Sunday night after suffering fatal brain injuries during a boxing match last week. According to a statement on the boxer's website [via the Tribune], some of Rodriguez's organs have been donated, including a kidney that was given to his uncle; organs were reportedly donated to seven other recipients as well.

“We just learned that Paco and our uncle are a match,” said Alex Rodriguez, Paco’s brother.

“Our uncle has been on the waiting list for a kidney transplant for a long, long time,” Alex continued. “So although we’ve tragically lost Paco, we’re able to give this incredible gift of life to another family member.”

“My family is desperately grieving the loss of Paco, but there is some comfort knowing that he will save at least eight lives and benefit so many families.”

Rodriguez won five local Golden Gloves titles in his short career and also won a national Golden Gloves title in 2001.