In Memoriam: Athletes Who Died in 2025

Diogo Jota - July 3

Portuguese professional soccer player renowned for his clinical finishing, pace, and versatility as a forward or winger. He began his career at Paços de Ferreira before moving to Atlético Madrid, and after loan spells at FC Porto and Wolverhampton Wanderers, he joined Wolves permanently and played a key role in their promotion to the Premier League. In 2020, Jota signed for Liverpool, where he became an integral part of the squad, helping the club win the Premier League, FA Cup, and other honors, and scoring crucial goals in domestic and European competitions. Internationally, he represented Portugal, earning nearly 50 caps, and was part of the squads that won the UEFA Nations League in 2019 and 2025. He tragically died in a car accident in Spain, at age 28, along with his brother André.

Alex Delvecchio - July 1

Canadian ice hockey player and lifelong member of the Detroit Red Wings organization, spending his entire 22-year NHL career (1951–1973) as a forward. He played in 1,549 NHL games, scoring 456 goals and 825 assists for 1,281 points—upon retirement, ranking second in league history in games, assists, and points—all with the same franchise. A key member of the famed “Production Line” alongside Gordie Howe and Ted Lindsay, he helped Detroit to three Stanley Cups (1952, 1954, 1955), was a 13-time All-Star and three-time Lady Byng Memorial Trophy winner for his exceptional sportsmanship. After retiring, Delvecchio served as the Red Wings’ head coach and general manager from 1973 to 1977, was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 1977, and was later named one of the NHL’s “100 Greatest Players.” Delvecchio passed away at the age of 93.

Dave Parker - June 28

American professional baseball player who played 19 seasons from 1973 to 1991, most notably with the Pittsburgh Pirates, where he won the National League MVP in 1978 and led the team to a World Series title in 1979. Renowned for his powerful bat and strong throwing arm, Parker was a seven-time All-Star, two-time World Series champion (with the Pirates in 1979 and the Oakland Athletics in 1989), and won back-to-back NL batting titles in 1977 and 1978. Over his career, he amassed 2,712 hits, 339 home runs, 1,493 RBIs, and a .290 batting average, earning three Gold Gloves and three Silver Slugger awards. Dave Parker passed away at the age of 74.

Zunilda Mendez - June 19

Zunilda Méndez, also known as "She Hulk" or "Amy" in bodybuilding circles, was a Colombian professional bodybuilder known for her international achievements and significant online presence. Méndez was found dead at age 43 in a rented apartment in the Higuerón West area of Fuengirola, Spain, the victim of a suspected homicide after being beaten to death with a hammer. Her husband, 46-year-old American-Colombian bodybuilder Jarrod Gelling, was found nearby in the bathroom with self-inflicted stab wounds, in what authorities believe was a case of femicide followed by suicide.

Nina Kuscsik - June 15

American long-distance runner and activist who played a crucial role in advancing women’s participation in distance running. She made history as the first woman to officially win the Boston Marathon in 1972, after having already completed the race unofficially in 1969, and she also won the New York City Marathon in 1972 and 1973. Kuscsik was instrumental in lobbying the Amateur Athletic Union to allow women to compete in longer races, leading to the official inclusion of women in marathons and the eventual addition of the women’s marathon to the Olympic Games in 1984. Over her career, she ran more than 80 marathons, set an American record for the 50-mile distance, and was a multi-sport champion in her youth, holding New York State titles in speed skating, roller skating, and cycling. Beyond her athletic achievements, Kuscsik was known for her activism, including organizing protests against discriminatory rules and serving on committees that shaped the future of women’s running in the U.S. She was inducted into several halls of fame and remembered as a trailblazer who combined competitive excellence with determined advocacy for gender equality in sport. Kuscsik passed away at the age of 86.

David Greenwood - June 8

American professional basketball player known for his 12-year NBA career spanning from 1979 to 1991, during which he played as a forward/center for the Chicago Bulls, San Antonio Spurs, Denver Nuggets, and Detroit Pistons, winning an NBA championship with Detroit in 1990. A standout at UCLA, Greenwood was a two-time league player of the year, a first-team All-American, and remains fourth on the school's all-time rebounding list. Drafted second overall in the 1979 NBA draft—just after Magic Johnson—he became a key player for the Bulls prior to the Michael Jordan era and later contributed to championship teams and coached high school basketball, earning induction into both the Pac-12 Hall of Honor and the National Collegiate Basketball Hall of Fame. David Greenwood passed away at the age of 68.

Travis Carter - June 9

Travis Carter was a highly respected figure in NASCAR, known for his long and successful career as both a crew chief and team owner in the NASCAR Winston Cup Series. Starting as a crew chief in the early 1970s, Carter won championships with Benny Parsons in 1973 and Cale Yarborough in 1978, and was the winning crew chief for Parsons in the 1975 Daytona 500. He later owned Travis Carter Motorsports, fielding cars in NASCAR’s top series from 1990 to 2003, and worked with numerous prominent drivers, including Darrell Waltrip and Jimmy Spencer. Carter’s legacy is marked by over 30 wins as a crew chief, and his role in shaping modern NASCAR. He was also the father of driver Matt Carter and the uncle of crew chief Larry Carter. Travis Carter passed away at the age of 75.

Tom Rafferty - June 5

American football offensive lineman who spent his entire 14-season NFL career with the Dallas Cowboys. Drafted in the fourth round of the 1976 NFL Draft out of Penn State University, Rafferty played both guard and center positions, earning a reputation for his durability and versatility. He appeared in 221 games, starting 188, including 167 consecutive games —a franchise record at the time. Rafferty was part of the Cowboys' Super Bowl XII-winning team and played in two Super Bowls during his career. Rafferty is remembered for his crucial block that helped Tony Dorsett's 99-yard touchdown run in 1983. Rafferty passed away at the age of 70 following complications from a stroke.

Jim Marshall - June 3

American professional football player known primarily as a defensive end for the Minnesota Vikings in the NFL, where he played 20 seasons from 1960 to 1979, starting a then-record 270 consecutive games and playing in 282 straight games, the most by a defensive player in NFL history. Marshall played college football at Ohio State before a brief stint in the Canadian Football League with the Saskatchewan Roughriders. Drafted by the Cleveland Browns in 1960, he was traded to the Vikings in their inaugural 1961 season and became a cornerstone of their defense, famously part of the "Purple People Eaters" line. Marshall was a two-time Pro Bowler and helped lead the Vikings to four Super Bowl appearances in the 1970s, although they never won the championship. Jim Marshall passed away at the age of 87 after a lengthy hospitalization.

Mike McCallum - May 31

Jamaican professional boxer who competed from 1981 to 1997 and held world championships in three weight classes: the WBA super welterweight title (1984–1988), the WBA middleweight title (1989–1991), and the WBC light heavyweight title (1994–1995). Nicknamed "The Bodysnatcher" for his devastating body punches, McCallum was known for his technical skill, toughness, and durable chin, never being stopped in any of his five losses. He became Jamaica’s first world boxing champion and retired with a record of 49 wins, 5 losses, and 1 draw, including 36 knockouts. McCallum was inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame in 2003 and is regarded as one of the best middleweight champions in boxing history. McCallum passed away at the age of 68.

Georgia O'Connor - May 22

English professional boxer who won gold at the 2017 Commonwealth Youth Games, silver at the 2017 Youth World Championships, and bronze at the 2018 Youth World Championships as an amateur. She turned professional in 2021, remained undefeated in her three bouts, and fought on the historic all-female card at London’s O2 Arena in 2022. O'Connor was also a black belt and national champion in taekwondo, fluent in French, and studied civil engineering. She battled ulcerative colitis and primary sclerosing cholangitis, and after being diagnosed with terminal cancer in January 2025, she married her partner Adriano Cardinali just two weeks before her death at age 25.

Gadi Kinda - May 20

Israeli professional soccer player born in Ethiopia who played as an attacking midfielder. Immigrating to Israel as a child, he began his career with F.C. Ashdod and later played for Beitar Jerusalem before joining Sporting Kansas City in Major League Soccer (MLS) from 2020 to 2023, where he became a fan favorite, recording 14 goals and 13 assists in 64 appearances. Internationally, he represented Israel, scoring on his senior debut in 2021 and earning 10 caps. In 2024, he returned to Israel to play for Maccabi Haifa. Gadi Kinda passed away at the age of 31 after battling a complex medical condition.

Rich Rollins - May 13

American Major League Baseball third baseman best known for his decade-long career, primarily with the Minnesota Twins from 1961 to 1968, where he was a two-time American League All-Star and a key player during the Twins’ first pennant-winning season in 1965. Rollins was recognized for his strong rookie season in 1962, finishing eighth in MVP voting and starting both All-Star games that year, and he posted a career batting average of .269 with 77 home runs and 399 RBIs across 1,002 games. After his time with the Twins, he played for the Seattle Pilots/Milwaukee Brewers and the Cleveland Indians, retiring after the 1970 season. Rollins was also noted for his collegiate success at Kent State University and later contributed to baseball through coaching and scouting before retiring in Ohio. Rich Rollins passed away in May 2025 at the age of 87.

Sabu - May 11

Sabu, born Terry Brunk, was an American professional wrestler renowned for his pioneering role in hardcore wrestling, particularly during his time with Extreme Championship Wrestling (ECW). Sabu gained fame for his high-risk, high-flying style, often incorporating tables, chairs, and barbed wire into his matches, and for his willingness to endure extreme physical punishment to entertain fans. Trained by his uncle, the legendary The Sheik, Sabu became a multiple-time ECW World Heavyweight Champion, ECW Tag Team Champion, and ECW Television Champion, and later competed in WWE, WCW, and various international promotions. Sabu passed away at the age of 60.

Chet Lemon - May 8

American professional baseball player, best known for his 16-season career with the Chicago White Sox and Detroit Tigers from 1975 to 1990, during which he was a three-time American League All-Star and a key member of the Tigers’ 1984 World Series championship team. Renowned as one of the best defensive center fielders of his era, Lemon led the league in outfield putouts multiple times and was known for his aggressive play and ability to get on base, including leading the AL in doubles in 1979 and in times hit by pitch on several occasions. He finished his career with a .273 batting average, 215 home runs, and 884 RBIs. After retiring, Lemon became a successful youth baseball coach and mentor in Florida, but his later years were marked by significant health challenges, including strokes and aphasia, before his passing at age 70.

Guilherme Henrique - May 5

Guilherme Henrique, widely known as Gui Bull, was a Brazilian bodybuilder and influential figure in the fitness community, celebrated for his achievements in the Classic Physique and Classic Bodybuilding categories, where he won five titles during his career. Henrique passed away at the age of 30. His death was attributed to asphyxiation due to bronchoaspiration.

Jochen Mass - May 4

German racing driver known for his successful career in Formula 1 and sports car racing from the early 1970s through the 1990s. He started in touring cars and Formula 2 before making his Formula 1 debut in 1973 with Surtees, later driving for McLaren, ATS, Arrows, and March, participating in 105 Grands Prix and achieving one Grand Prix victory at the 1975 Spanish Grand Prix. Beyond F1, Mass excelled in endurance racing, notably winning the 24 Hours of Le Mans in 1989 with Sauber-Mercedes. After retiring from active racing, he engaged in team management and broadcasting, and he was an early mentor to Michael Schumacher. Jochen Mass passed away at the age of 78.

Stan Love - April 27

American professional basketball player who played in the NBA and ABA during the early 1970s, most notably for the Baltimore Bullets, Los Angeles Lakers, and San Antonio Spurs. Drafted ninth overall by the Bullets in 1971 after a standout college career at Oregon, Love averaged around 6.8 points and 4.0 rebounds over four professional seasons. Beyond basketball, he was known as the younger brother of Beach Boys singer Mike Love and the father of current NBA player Kevin Love. In addition to his sports legacy, Stan Love also served as a bodyguard and assistant to Beach Boys member Brian Wilson, reflecting his close ties to the famous musical family. Love passed away at the age of 76.

Margot Simond - April 24

French alpine skier and rising star who had recently claimed the French U18 slalom title and represented France at the Junior World Championships and the European Youth Olympic Winter Festival. She was considered a promising talent for the future of French skiing, competing for the Club des Sports des Saisies and the Savoie Ski Committee. Tragically, Simond passed away at the age of 18, following a fatal training accident on the Envers de Bellevarde slope in Val d’Isère while preparing for the Red Bull Alpine Park event, a competition blending slalom and slopestyle. Despite immediate medical attention, she could not be revived, and her death prompted widespread mourning and tributes from the international ski community.

Steve McMichael - April 23

American football player, professional wrestler, and sports broadcaster, best known for his time as a dominant defensive tackle with the Chicago Bears in the NFL. He played college football at the University of Texas before being drafted by the New England Patriots in 1980, though he achieved fame with the Bears, helping lead them to victory in Super Bowl XX in 1986. Nicknamed "Mongo," McMichael was a two-time Pro Bowl selection and a key member of the Bears’ legendary defense. After retiring from football, he transitioned to professional wrestling, joining World Championship Wrestling (WCW), and later worked as a commentator and sports personality. McMichael passed away at age 67 after a battle with ALS.

Leo Beenhakker - April 10

Dutch soccer coach. Known for his tactical expertise and leadership, he achieved significant success at both club and international levels. Beenhakker managed top teams like Ajax, Feyenoord, and Real Madrid, where he won three consecutive La Liga titles. Internationally, he made history by leading Trinidad and Tobago to their first FIFA World Cup in 2006 and guiding Poland to their debut UEFA Euro appearance in 2008. Beenhakker passed away at the age of 82.

Octavio Dotel - April 8

Dominican professional baseball pitcher known for his 15-season career in Major League Baseball (MLB), during which he played for 13 teams, including the Houston Astros, New York Mets, and Detroit Tigers. Renowned for his strikeout ability, Dotel holds the best career strikeout rate (10.8 per nine innings) among right-handed pitchers with at least 900 innings pitched. He won a World Series with the St. Louis Cardinals in 2011 and was part of the Dominican Republic's championship team in the 2013 World Baseball Classic. Tragically, Dotel passed away at age 51 following injuries sustained during a nightclub roof collapse in Santo Domingo.

Greg Millen - April 7

Canadian professional ice hockey goaltender and hockey commentator. He played 14 seasons between the pipes in the National Hockey League for six teams: the Pittsburgh Penguins, Hartford Whalers, St. Louis Blues, Quebec Nordiques, Chicago Blackhawks, and Detroit Red Wings. He represented Canada internationally at the 1982 World Championship. After retiring, Millen transitioned to broadcasting, becoming a respected commentator for the Ottawa Senators and "Hockey Night in Canada". He passed away at the age of 67.

Cynthia James - April 5

Cynthia James, known as "CJ," was a celebrated IFBB Pro bodybuilder, judge, and designer who made significant contributions to the bodybuilding community over her 30-year career. She competed in the Women’s Bodybuilding division, served as an IFBB Pro judge, and founded CJ’s Elite Custom Competition Suits in 1996, crafting high-quality suits for top athletes. Beyond her professional achievements, she was a passionate advocate for the sport, hosting shows and mentoring competitors. Cynthia James passed away at the age of 66.

Vittorio Pirbazari - March 31

German bodybuilder and actor. He was known for his role as Daher Tarik in the 2018 Netflix series "Dogs of Berlin" and also appeared in the German crime series "Tatort." Pirbazari was an active fitness influencer with 90,000 Instagram followers, where he documented his training and recovery journeys. Tragically, Pirbazari passed away at the age of 44, after collapsing while running on a treadmill, just three months after undergoing surgery to reattach a torn pectoral muscle.

Richard Norton - March 28

Australian martial artist, actor, stunt performer and fight choreographer. He held high-ranking black belts in various martial arts, including Zen Do Kai (10th dan), Gōjū-ryū karate (5th dan), Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (6th dan), Chun Kuk Do (8th dan), and Ukidokan Kickboxing (Level 6). Norton initially worked as a bodyguard for celebrities such as ABBA, The Rolling Stones, and David Bowie before transitioning to acting. He appeared in over 80 films and TV shows, including "The Octagon" (1980) with Chuck Norris, "Licence to Kill" (1989), and numerous martial arts films alongside Jackie Chan and Cynthia Rothrock. Norton also served as a fight choreographer for major films like "Mad Max: Fury Road" (2015) and "Suicide Squad" (2016). Richard Norton passed away at the age of 75.

George Foreman - March 21

American boxer and entrepreneur. He was a two-time world heavyweight champion and Olympic gold medalist, first gaining fame by winning the heavyweight title in 1973 with a knockout of Joe Frazier. After losing to Muhammad Ali in the iconic "Rumble in the Jungle" in 1974, Foreman retired in 1977 but made a remarkable comeback a decade later. In 1994, at age 45, he became the oldest heavyweight champion by defeating Michael Moorer. Outside boxing, Foreman became a successful entrepreneur, notably promoting the George Foreman Grill, which earned him immense financial success. He retired from boxing in 1997 with a record of 76 wins (68 by knockout) and 5 losses and was inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame in 2003. Foreman passed away at the age of 76.

George Bell - March 19

American basketball player and the tallest men in the United States, standing at 7 feet 8 inches. He played for the Harlem Wizards and Harlem Globetrotters show teams before transitioning to a career as an entertainer and motivational speaker. Bell was officially recognized by Guinness World Records as the tallest man in America in 2007. He also appeared on TV shows like "Freakshow" and "American Horror Story". Despite his height giving him an advantage in basketball, he faced challenges due to the physical strain of his size. Beyond sports, he has used his stature to raise awareness about gigantism and inspire others. Bell passed away at the age of 67.

Red Lerille - March 14

American bodybuilder, gym owner, and fitness icon. Born in Harvey, Louisiana, he developed a passion for bodybuilding at a young age, inspired by his uncle and teacher. During his service in the United States Navy from 1955 to 1959, Lerille's dedication to bodybuilding flourished. He secured several titles, including Mr. Armed Forces and Mr. Hawaii in 1958, and Mr. Dixie in 1959. His most notable achievement came in 1960 when he won the prestigious Mr. America title. Following his competitive success, Lerille transitioned into the fitness industry. In 1963, he opened his own gym, Red Lerille's Health Club, in Lafayette, Louisiana. Known for his commitment to health and innovation, Lerille received numerous accolades, including induction into multiple fitness halls of fame. Red Lerille passed away at the age of 88.

Oliver Miller - March 12

American professional basketball player who played as a center in the NBA during the 1990s. Nicknamed "The Big O," Miller stood at 6 ft 9 in and weighed over 300 lb. Miller was drafted by the Phoenix Suns in 1992 and had a nine-year NBA career, playing for various teams including the Suns, Detroit Pistons, Toronto Raptors, Dallas Mavericks and Sacramento Kings. Oliver Miller passed away at the age of 54.

Jodi Vance - February 27

American bodybuilder. She was considered a promising figure in the bodybuilding world, having recently secured third place in the Women's Physique category at the 2024 NPC Battle of Texas. Vance was also a trainer with a dedicated following who closely followed her career in bodybuilding. Tragically, Vance passed away while attending the Arnold Sports Festival in Columbus, Ohio. Her death was attributed to complications from severe dehydration, which led to cardiac arrest. Jodi Vance passed away at the age of 20.

Boris Spassky - February 27

Russian chess grandmaster who was the tenth World Chess Champion, holding the title from 1969 to 1972. He was recognized as a prodigy from an early age, becoming an International Master at 16 and a Grandmaster at 18. Spassky's career highlights include defeating Tigran Petrosian in 1969 to become world champion and his iconic match against Bobby Fischer in 1972, which symbolized the Cold War rivalry between the USA and the Soviet Union. He was a two-time USSR Champion and played for the Soviet team in several Chess Olympiads. Spassky later emigrated to France in 1976, becoming a French citizen in 1978, and returned to Russia in 2012. Known for his elegant and universal playing style, Spassky left a lasting legacy in the chess world. Boris Spassky passed away at the age of 88.

Greg Haugen - February 22

American professional boxer who competed from 1982 to 1999. He is best known for being a former world champion in multiple weight classes, holding the IBF lightweight title (1986–1987, 1988–1989) and the WBO light welterweight title (1991). Haugen gained recognition for his tough, scrappy fighting style and for his notable victories over fighters like Vinny Pazienza and Héctor "Macho" Camacho. One of his most famous bouts was against Julio César Chávez in 1993, where he suffered a lopsided defeat in front of a record-breaking crowd (132,000 spectators) in Mexico City. Greg Haugen passed away at the age of 64.

Peter Navy Tuiasosopo - February 10

American football player and actor who gained recognition for his role as E. Honda in the live-action movie "Street Fighter" (1994). Before his acting career, Tuiasosopo played college football at Utah State University and for Los Angeles Rams of the NFL. His first film role was in "Necessary Roughness" (1991). He appeared in films such as "BASEketball", "The Fast and the Furious", and "12 Rounds". He also played Yoshi Nakamura in the Disney TV show "Kickin' It" and had a guest role on "NCIS". Tuiasosopo passed away at the age of 61.

Dick Jauron - February 8

American football player and coach. Jauron excelled as a running back at Swampscott High School and Yale University, where he earned the Asa S. Bushnell Cup and All-America honors, leading to his induction into the College Football Hall of Fame in 2015. Drafted by the Detroit Lions in 1973, he played as a safety for eight seasons in the NFL, earning a Pro Bowl selection in 1974. Jauron served as the head coach of the Chicago Bears from 1999 to 2003 and the Buffalo Bills from 2006 until November 2009, and he was named NFL Coach of the Year in 2001 after leading the Bears to a 13-3 record. Jauron passed away at the age of 74.

Rich Dauer - February 3

American professional baseball infielder and coach, best known for his ten-year career with the Baltimore Orioles from 1976 to 1985. He played primarily as a second baseman and was part of the Orioles' World Series-winning team in 1983. Known for his exceptional defensive skills, he set American League records for consecutive errorless games and chances in 1978. After retiring as a player, Dauer had a successful coaching career with several MLB teams, including the Houston Astros, where he was part of the coaching staff during their 2017 World Series victory. He was inducted into the Baltimore Orioles Hall of Fame in 2012. Dauer passed away at the age of 72.

Evgenia Shishkova and Vadim Naumov - January 29

Russian figure skaters known for their success in pair skating during the 1990s. They formed a partnership in 1987, achieving significant milestones, including winning the 1994 World Championship and multiple medals at European Championships. They represented Russia in two Olympic Games, finishing fifth in 1992 and fourth in 1994. After retiring from competitive skating in 1998, they transitioned to coaching in the United States, where they have influenced many young skaters. Tragically, they were involved in the Potomac River plane crash while traveling from Wichita to Washington, D.C.

Denis Law - January 17

Scottish soccer player, widely regarded as one of the greatest players of his generation. He began his professional career with Huddersfield Town in 1956. Law played for several clubs, including Manchester City, Torino, and most notably Manchester United, where he spent eleven years and scored 237 goals in 404 appearances. Law was part of the iconic "United Trinity" with George Best and Bobby Charlton. He won the Ballon d'Or in 1964, becoming the only Scottish player to receive this prestigious award. He passed away at the age of 84.

Bob Uecker - January 16

Profesional baseball player, sports broadcaster, comedian, and actor, affectionately known as "Mr. Baseball." Uecker began his baseball career as a catcher, playing for the Milwaukee Braves, St. Louis Cardinals, and Philadelphia Phillies from 1962 to 1967. He won a World Series title with the Cardinals in 1964. While his playing career was modest, he became widely recognized for his wit, humor, and self-deprecating style. Uecker gained fame as a broadcaster, serving as the radio play-by-play announcer for the Milwaukee Brewers since 1971. His humorous commentary and unique storytelling style have made him a beloved figure in baseball. He was inducted into the National Baseball Hall of Fame in 2003, receiving the prestigious Ford C. Frick Award for broadcasting excellence. He was also inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame in 2010 for his memorable appearances at WrestleMania events. In addition to his sports career, Uecker appeared in commercials, movies (notably the Major League film series), and television shows, including a starring role in the sitcom "Mr. Belvedere". Uecker passed away at the age of 90.

Gus Williams - January 15

American professional basketball, known as "The Wizard". He played as a point guard and shooting guard in the NBA, most notably leading the Seattle SuperSonics to their only NBA championship in 1979. Williams was drafted by the Golden State Warriors in 1975 but found his success with the SuperSonics, earning two All-Star appearances and being named to the All-NBA First and Second Teams. After a contract dispute led him to miss the 1980 season, he returned strong, earning the NBA Comeback Player of the Year award in 1982. Williams finished his career with the Washington Bullets and Atlanta Hawks, leaving a legacy as a dynamic player who redefined the point guard position with his speed and scoring ability. He passed away at the age of 71.

Dwight Foster - January 6

Canadian professional ice hockey player. He had a notable career in the National Hockey League (NHL), playing primarily as a forward. Foster was drafted in the first round, 16th overall, by the Boston Bruins in the 1977 NHL Entry Draft. He played for several teams during his career, including the Boston Bruins, Colorado Rockies, New Jersey Devils, and Detroit Red Wings, before retiring in 1987 due to persistent knee injuries. Throughout his NHL career, Foster played a total of 541 games, accumulating 274 points (111 goals and 163 assists). Foster passed away at the age of 67.

Morris Bradshaw - January 3

American football player who played primarily as a wide receiver. He attended Ohio State University, where he excelled in football before being selected by the Oakland Raiders in the fourth round of the 1974 NFL Draft. Over his nine-season career in the NFL, Bradshaw played for the Raiders and the New England Patriots, accumulating impressive statistics that included 90 receptions for 1,416 yards and 12 touchdowns. He was part of the Raiders' Super Bowl XI and XV championship teams. Morris Bradshaw passed away at the age of 72.

Cristóbal Ortega - January 2

Mexican soccer player and coach, celebrated for his long tenure as a midfielder with Club América from 1974 to 1992. He holds the record for the most official matches played for the club, totaling 711 games, and is tied for the most titles won with 14 trophies. Ortega also represented the Mexican national team, participating in the FIFA World Cups of 1978 and 1986, earning 24 caps and scoring four goals. After retiring as a player, he transitioned into coaching roles within various clubs. Ortega passed away at the age of 68.