The FIAS highlighted the breakthrough Rebollar achieved in the development of the sport in his country by creating a club in Acapulco, which later received the status of a Sambo Academy.

This was created in the likeness of the famed Russian Sambo Academy in Kstovo, where Rebollar himself studied.

Sambo's worldwide governing body said Rebollar "was able to adopt and implement not only the philosophy of sambo based on respect and morality, but also the idea of affordable education, making sambo classes in Acapulco possible for everyone, especially for children from problem families".

FIAS expressed its "deepest condolences in connection with the death of our good friend, faithful companion and like-minded person, a talented organiser, an outstanding athlete and coach".

"The news of the tragic death of this bright, extraordinary and sincere person, with all his heart devoted to the development of Sambo throughout the world, was a real shock for the entire Sambo community," the FIAS said.

"Antonio devoted his whole life to the development of sambo in Mexico and throughout the Pan American continent.

"A real love for Sambo and devotion to this sport became for him the work of his entire life…

"With the death of Antonio Ramirez Rebollar, the entire sambist community suffered a colossal and irreparable loss.

"Antonio will forever remain in our hearts, and his name will be inscribed in the history of world Sambo.

"The FIAS sincerely shares the pain of loss and expresses deep sympathy to the family."