- Jones revealed the devastating news to his followers on Instagram this week
- DeAndre was one of three children the fight icon shared with wife Natlyn
Roy Jones Jr has announced the tragic death of his 32-year-old son DeAndre after revealing he committed suicide over the weekend.
The boxing legend shared the devastating news in a heartbreaking statement on Instagram, in which he described how ‘thankful’ he was to have spent the final evening of his son’s life with him.
‘Unfortunately my son DeAndre took his life Saturday,’ Jones wrote. ‘I’m so thankful that god allowed me to come home Friday night to spend the last night of his life with me and the family.
‘I know a lot of people are going through tough times right now, but nothing is worth taking your own life. God gives it and god should be the one to take it away.
‘Please respect our privacy while my family and I process this loss. Thank you for the love and support.’
DeAndre, born on July 1, 1992, was the youngest of three children that Jones shared with wife Natlyn after his brothers Roy III and DeShaun.
Authorities are yet to confirm any details surrounding his death on Saturday.
Jones, a former four-weight world champion, is widely considered one of the greatest fighters in boxing history.
Controversially, the 55-year-old has continued to fight on in recent years despite calls for him to hang up his gloves once and for all.
After a win in 2018, he returned two years later to take on fellow legend Mike Tyson in an opinion-dividing exhibition bout.
And as recently as last year Jones stepped through the ropes again in a professional contest, which ended in a points defeat against ex-UFC star Anthony Pettis.
At the peak of his powers, the Florida native staked a claim to being the No. 1 pound-for-pound fighter on the planet.
Jones has also ventured into coaching since his own fighting career has dwindled out, training the likes of Chris Eubank Jnr and Jarred Anderson in recent years.
If you or a loved one is experiencing suicidal thoughts or actions, please contact the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988 or 1-800-273-TALK (8255)