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Chris Lorenzo Talks About Brother Irv Gotti’s Health Battle Claims He Suffered Fatal Stroke While Eating And Playing

BY Edwin Lamptey February 25, 2025 3:28 PM EDT
NEW YORK - DECEMBER 6: (L-R) Inc. label executives Irv Gotti, recording artist Ashanti, and Chris Gotti attend Ashanti's "Collectables by Ashanti" Album Release Party at Rhone December 6, 2005 in New York (Photo by Ray Tamarra/Getty Images)

Chris ‘Gotti’ Lorenzo, brother of the late Irv Gotti, has opened up on what led to his brother’s demise.

Chris revealed that Irv was diagnosed with diabetes and later suffered a stroke while eating Chinese food and playing poker.

Irv, born Irving Domingo Lorenzo Jr., died on February 5 at 54 years old. The rap mogul’s children confirmed his passing in a joint statement shared on their father’s Instagram account.

READ ALSO: Ja Rule Mourns ‘Brother’ Irv Gotti With A Tearful Tribute

The February 6 message, written by his children Angie, Sonny, and JJ (Jonathan), read:

“Surrounded by family and friends, he departed this world, leaving behind a legacy that will forever resonate in the hearts of those who knew him and the countless lives he touched. Our dad was an incredible man, a true visionary who transformed the hip-hop industry and changed the game for artists and fans alike. His passion for music and dedication to his craft inspired many, and his contributions will continue to influence future generations.”

At the time of his passing, a rep for Irv Gotti told TMZ that his client had been struggling with diabetes for years.

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The rep also said his medical condition also caused him to have a minor stroke last year. During a 2023 interview on ‘Drink Champs,’ Irv Gotti also admitted that he wasn’t consistent with taking his insulin.

Recently appearing on the ‘2WAY Tonight’ with host, Mark Halperin, some doctors, and fellow rap icon, Damon “Dame” Dash, 58-year-old Chris explained that his brother Irv Gotti had a “massive hemorrhagic stroke” while eating Chinese food before his death.

Lorenzo also spoke about losing their father, who was also diagnosed with diabetes and died at age 86. He says, “And when we talk about this topic, I watched him suffer the least three years of his life. So it’s about quality of life.”

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