Former Olympian Boxer Felix Verdejo Receives Two Life Sentences for Murder of Pregnant Lover

Verdejo found guilty in July 2023 for the kidnapping that led to a death and causing the death of an unborn child; attorney plans to appeal the sentences, shocks Puerto Rico and the U.S. raising calls for enhanced protections against domestic violence.

• Felix Verdejo, a former Olympian boxer from Puerto Rico, received two life sentences for the murder of his pregnant lover, Keishla Rodríguez, and causing the death of an unborn child.
• Verdejo was found guilty in July 2023 for the crimes that were committed in April 2021; his attorney announced plans to file an appeal.
• During his trial, it was revealed that Verdejo had pressured Rodríguez to get an abortion, then killed her by injecting her with a toxic substance, tying her to a cement block and throwing her off a bridge.
• Luis Antonio Cádiz, a friend of Verdejo's who was also charged in the case, provided the location of Rodríguez's body after calling 911 anonymously.
• The case has shocked both the U.S. and Puerto Rico leading to calls for improved protection for victims of domestic violence.
• Verdejo had a successful boxing career prior to these events, including participation in the 2012 Olympics, and finished his professional career with a 27-2 record.

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