The boxing world is in mourning following the untimely passing of Paul Bamba, who died just six days after achieving a career milestone by winning the WBA Gold cruiserweight title.
The 35-year-old boxer passed away on Friday, shortly after his victory over Rogelio Medina Luna in New Jersey on December 21. The bout marked a significant moment in Bamba’s career, as he secured the WBA cruiserweight rankings belt. This triumph also coincided with his recent signing as the first client of singer Ne-Yo’s new management company.
In a joint statement released by Ne-Yo and the Bamba family, the news of his passing was confirmed, though the cause of death remains undisclosed.
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“It is with profound sorrow that we announce the passing of beloved son, brother, friend, and boxing champion Paul Bamba, whose light and love touched countless lives,” the statement shared via TNT Sports read.
The family and management further described Bamba as “a fierce yet confident competitor with unrelenting ambition to achieve greatness,” emphasizing his inspirational journey and the impact he had on those around him. They also requested privacy as they navigate this difficult time.
Bamba’s victory over Medina Luna, a former super middleweight title contender, ended with Medina Luna retiring after six rounds, improving Bamba’s professional record to 19-3.
In November 2022, Bamba had been set to fight Tommy Fury, brother of Tyson Fury, but the match was canceled due to weight disagreements.
The boxing community, along with fans worldwide, mourns the loss of a talented athlete whose career and life were tragically cut short.