Sportscaster Ronnie Nathanielsz dies at 81

MANILA, Philippines - Veteran sports broadcaster and analyst Ronnie Nathanielsz passed away on Saturday at the age of 81.

Female sports broadcaster Dyan Castillejo, said Nathanielsz died in San Francisco, California early Saturday due to heart attack.

Nathanielsz was supposed to be joining a TV broadcast panel to cover Sen. Manny Pacquiao’s fight against Jessie Vargas on November 6 (Manila time). However, while on his way to Las Vegas he reportedly complained chest pains and was then hospitalized and given life support for cardiac arrest.

Castillejo said Nathanielz’s remains will be flown to Manila after his funeral service is arranged.

Nathanielsz is not only a broadcaster-analyst but also served as columnist in local broadsheets. He was known for his commentaries on boxing matches such as Pacquiao’s.

The veteran sports analyst was the liaison officer during boxing legend Muhammad Ali’s visit to the Philippines in 1975 for “Thrilla in Manila.” 

Supporters mourned his passing and paid tribute to him by posting a collage in his Facebook page. — Rosette Adel