Veteran American boxer Carson Jones died at the age of 38 from complications following esophageal surgery, and the boxing community is in grief.

Jones leaves a history of tenacity and sportsmanship, known for his tenacity in the ring and unforgettable fights against elite opponents.

Health Struggles Leading to Surgery

Jones publicly disclosed in early 2025 that he suffered from serious gastrointestinal problems that severely hindered his ability to eat, leading to a dramatic 35-pound weight reduction. He shared on social media his displeasure and hope for relief:

“I finally have surgery on my esophagus on Monday. I cannot wait. This s*** is driving me insane. 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.”  

Sadly, his friend and former opponent Caleb Truax stated that issues during the surgery caused his premature death. Given the gravity of Jones’ illness, Truax has already asked for prayers for him:

“Boxing community, we need some prayers for former world title challenger Carson Jones. He had complications during a surgical procedure, and my friend can use all the good vibes he can get.”  

A Storied Boxing Career

Jones, who was born in Oklahoma City, began a career as a professional boxer that lasted more than 20 years. During that time, he recorded 31 knockout victories, 41 wins, 15 losses, 3 ties, and 2 no contests. His two run-ins with Britain’s Kell Brook made him most famous.

Jones put on a strong show in their first fight in 2012, defeating Brook by majority decision. In the 2013 rematch, Brook suffered a defeat in the eighth round.

Jones fought a number of well-known opponents in addition to Brook, such as as Steven Butler, Ted Cheeseman, Brian Rose, and former welterweight world champion Antonio Margarito.

In the boxing world, he was known as a “real road warrior” because of his readiness to take on difficult battles, frequently at short notice and in his opponents’ backyards.  

Tributes and Legacy

The news of Jones’s passing elicited an outpouring of grief and tributes from the boxing world. British boxing referee Mark Lyson expressed his sorrow, stating:

“Very sad to hear the news about the passing of Carson Jones at just 38. RIP Champ.”  

Manager Sam Jones also conveyed his condolences, remarking:

“Such sad news about Carson Jones.”  

Jones was recognized by both fighters and fans for his professionalism, perseverance, and unwavering spirit in the ring. His career is proof of the perseverance and tenacity that characterize boxing.

Final Bell

The development of Carson Jones from a teenage fighter to an accomplished veteran demonstrated his undying dedication to the sport.

His valiant and resilient fights inside the ring have had a lasting impact on the sport. Future generations of fighters will be inspired by Carson Jones’s legacy as the boxing community says goodbye to one of its unwavering warriors.