Amanda Rodrigues, widow of the late boxing champion Arturo Gatti, says she had nothing to do with her husband's death and wants to clear her name.
In a lengthy letter sent to local newspapers, the 23-year-old said she was shocked to be portrayed as a "monster" and a "murderer" by Gatti's family and certain media.
Rodrigues was arrested and spent 18 days in a Brazilian prison after her husband was found dead in a hotel room last month.
Brazilian authorities released her July 31, following an initial autopsy that suggested Gatti may have killed himself.
Gatti's family, rejecting the theory of suicide, hired a prominent American pathologist to conduct a second autopsy.
In her letter, Rodrigues said she had no problem with a second autopsy because she believes it will prove that she is innocent.
In a telephone interview with CTV Montreal, Rodrigues said she is struggling to defend her reputation.
"I want people to know the truth. I'm sick and tired of the accusations. It's been very painful for me to go through the loss of my husband. It's terrible, terrible to know people are calling me names," she said.
Rodrigues said she is shocked that Gatti's family and friends insist that he was always smiling and happy.
Gatti had problems with drugs and alcohol and suffered from depression since childhood, she said.
Rodrigues also accused Gatti's loved ones of telling lies regarding his will.
Gatti decided to change his will after the birth of their son, Arturo Jr., Rodrigues said. She denied reports that her husband had a $1-million life insurance policy and that she forced him to make her the primary beneficiary just weeks before his death.
