Venue argued in suit over late boxer’s Gatti death
Jan 20, 2012, 9:05 PM
NEW BRUNSWICK, N.J. (AP) – Attorneys for late boxer Arturo Gatti’s widow say a lawsuit filed by the mother of Gatti’s daughter doesn’t belong in New Jersey.
Erika Rivera filed a wrongful death suit last fall against Gatti widow Amanda Rodrigues charging she was responsible for his death in Brazil in 2009. Authorities concluded Gatti died by suicide.
The charismatic Gatti lived, trained and fought in New Jersey and was a fan favorite for his gritty style.
In court in New Brunswick on Friday, Rodrigues’ attorneys claimed Rivera, who lives in New Jersey, brought the action in the state to benefit from Gatti’s reputation there. The judge didn’t say when he would rule on the matter.
Last month, a Canadian judge sided with Rodrigues in a battle with Gatti’s family over the boxer’s $3.4 million estate.
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