Boxer Paul Bamba has died at the age of 35, his manager Ne-Yo announced on Friday.
The death of the Puerto Rico-born fighter comes less than a week after his last fight, a victory against Rogelio Medina, which made him the WBA Gold light heavyweight champion.
American singer Ne-Yo, who made Bamba the first athlete signed to his new agency in November, confirmed the news in a joint statement with the family on Instagram.
“It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of beloved son, brother, friend and boxing champion Paul Bamba, whose love touched countless lives.”
“He was a fierce and confident competitor with a relentless ambition to achieve excellence. But more than anything, he was a wonderful individual who inspired many people with his exceptional determination, the statement read. We are heartbroken by his death and ask for understanding and privacy during this difficult time, as we come together to navigate this loss. »
Bamba has suffered only three defeats in his boxing career and has won each of his 14 fights in 2024 by knockout, including his world title victory against Medina on December 21 in New Jersey.
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