Two-time US National Champion Alan Vera passes away following 8 week-long stay in the ICU due to cardiac arrest

US Greco-Roman wrestling star Alan Vera has passed away after suffering a sudden cardiac arrest last month while playing soccer with his friends. He was originally from Cuba and later shifted to the USA and represented the country at multiple World Championships.

Vera originally represented Cuba before transferring to the United States ahead of the 2020 Tokyo Olympics. He secured the win at the Dave Schultz Memorial after shifting allegiance to the USA in 2019.

The 33-year-old has won two national titles in the 97 kg Greco-Roman category. He finished runner-up at the U.S. Olympic Trials 2024 before winning a silver medal at the Pan American Championships earlier this year.

Vera was playing soccer with his friends when he suddenly suffered a cardiac arrest in July. He was shifted to the hospital and following a month-long battle, the 33-year-old breathed his last on Tuesday, September 24.

Vera leaves behind his wife Elena Pirozhkova, a two-time Olympian and world champion, and daughter Alina, whom the couple had welcomed in 2024. The couple had married in 2016.

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The wrestling world mourns the loss of Alan Vera

OLYMPICS: APR 20 U.S. Olympic Wrestling Team Trials - Source: Getty

Several prominent US Wrestlers expressed their condolences following the news of Alan Vera's demise. Two-time Olympic bronze medalist Kyle Dake said he was ‘saddened’ to hear the tragic news, praising Vera for always being willing to help.

"Very saddened to hear about Alan Vera’s passing. In my limited time around him he was always willing to help on the mat, and offer a laugh at a terrible joke I made," he wrote.

World bronze medalist Jenna Rose Burkert was heartbroken over Vera's demise and extended her condolences to the grieving family.

"I am heartbroken to hear about the passing of Alan Vera. This is truly a tragic loss, and my thoughts are with his entire family during this incredibly difficult time. Sending prayers and love to all who knew him. Rest in peace, Alan. You will be missed but never forgotten," she wrote.

A fan wrote:

"Sadly, after an 8-week battle, Alan Vera passed away. Elena and baby Vera need our help more now than ever. Please consider making a contribution and/or sharing. My heartfelt condolences to his family and those closest to him. Rest in peace Alan."

A fundraising campaign has also been launched to support Vera's baby daughter.