13.03.07 - By Craig Parrish: Boxer Johnny Tapia has been hospitalized at Presbyterian Hospital in Albuquerque, New Mexico, after being discovered unconscious in a hotel room. Police say a plastic bag containing what was confirmed to be cocaine was discovered in the room and that Tapia will be charged with possession of a controlled substance. Tapia remains in critical condition.
The 40-year old Tapia won a bout several weeks ago with a majority decision over Evaristo Primero. He is a five time title-holder in the featherweight, bantamweight and junior bantamweight divisions.
This latest incident is another in a long list of addiction related problems. Tapia has been banned from boxing in the past, done stints in rehab, and has battled depression. Tapia was orphaned at 8 years old when his mother was murdered by being stabbed 26 times with a screwdriver.
Tapia recently published an autobiography “Mi Vida Loca” which chronicles his life in and out of the ring.
