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Wife reveals Johnny Tapia cause of death


The wife of the late Johnny Tapia says the six-time world boxing champion's death was related to heart problems and not because of a drug overdose.

Teresa Tapia said Wednesday that an autopsy report showed that Tapia died from heart disease and hypertension, and that no traces of illegal drugs were found in his system.

Tapia shared the newly released autopsy report with reporters at a press conference at the later boxer's Albuquerque gym.

Investigators found one Hydrocodone tablet, a painkiller, on the floor beside his body. They said there were no indicators of an overdose or alcohol use, but that he likely developed medical complications from past illegal drug use.

Tapia says her husband was taking medication for his bipolar disorder.

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