Gatti found dead in Brazil

Arturo Gatti, the thrill-a-minute brawler who engaged in an epic three-fight series with Micky Ward, was found dead in a rented condo in northeastern Brazil, The Associated Press is reporting. He was 37.

Gatti’s body was discovered Saturday morning in Porto de Galinhas, a beach resort, AP reported. He arrived there on Friday with his wife and 1-year-old son.

Police investigator Edilson Alves said it was unclear how Gatti died.

"It is still too early to say anything concrete, although it is all very strange," Alves said.

A spokesperson for the state public safety department said neither Gatti's wife nor his son were harmed.

She also said that a preliminary investigation has revealed little.

"There were no bullet or stab wounds on his body, but police did find blood stains on the floor," said the spokesperson, who declined to be identified.

Gatti, a native of Montreal who lived in Jersey City, N.J., won two major titles. He never had the natural ability of an elite boxer but no one had a superior fighting spirit. His courage and resilience are legendary.

He was a fan favorite in Atlantic City, near his adopted home town.

"His entire boxing career he fought with us, we've known him since he was 17," said Kathy Duva, CEO of Main Events, told AP. "It's just an unspeakable tragedy. I can't even find words. It's a horror."

Gatti retired in 2007.