Boxer Paul Bamba dies aged 35... just six days after his final fight ...
By MAX WINTERS
Published: 22:14 GMT, 27 December 2024 | Updated: 23:10 GMT, 27 December 2024
Boxer Paul Bamba has tragically died at the age of 35.
His death comes just six days after his last fight - a win over Rogelio Medina Luna in New Jersey that saw him named the WBA Gold Cruiserweight world champion.
In recent weeks, Bamba had also become the first client of iconic singer Ne-Yo's new management company.
'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,' Ne-Yo and the Bamba family said in a joint statement.
'He was a fierce yet confident competitor with an unrelenting ambition to achieve greatness. But more than anything, he was a tremendous individual that inspired many with his exceptional drive and determination,' the statement continued.
'We are heartbroken by his passing and kindly ask for privacy and understanding during this difficult time as we collectively navigate our grief.'
Boxer Paul Bamba - who was managed by Ne-Yo - has tragically died at the age of 35
His death comes just six days after his last fight - a win over Rogelio Medina Luna
Bamba ended his career with a 19-3 record and had called out Jake Paul for a fight following the win over Medina Luna.
The Puerto Rican fought a mighty 14 times this year and all were knockout victories, which broke Mike Tyson's record.
He was due to fight Tommy Fury back in November 22 but the fight was scrapped because of weight problems.
Bamba posted on Instagram just two days ago, writing: 'This year I set out with a goal. I did just that!
'Wasn’t easy there were many obstacles that I adapted to overcame and kept on the path we set regardless of extenuating circumstances. 14 fights 14 knockouts ending with the WBA GOLD cruiserweight world title.
'Blessed to have my family my team and all my supporters along the way. That being said if you got what some might call an “outlandish goal” GO chase it. Anyone who thinks that isn’t as brave as you, prove people wrong!'
The Puerto Rican fought a mighty 14 times this year and all were knockout victories
Ne-Yo, the 43-year-old born Shaffer Chimere Smith, announced Bamba as the first client of his management company on November 25.
'I'm honored to work with NE-YO in this capacity and I'm grateful for his unwavering confidence in me,' Bamba said in a statement at the time.
'I know he has the ability to open new doors and create opportunities for me to elevate as a fighter. It's going to be an exciting new chapter.'
Ne-Yo had already worked with Bamba in the gym and took a Muay Thai class in the sport's homeland in October.
'I've always been a martial arts fan, so I was excited to take my first professional Muaythai (sic) class while I had some downtime from the tour in Thailand,' he wrote on Instagram. 'Trust me, it looks a lot easier than it actually is.'
A month earlier, Ne-Yo posted shots of an outdoor workout with Bamba online.
'Outdoor gym w/ the boys @neyo & @bambajuice,' he wrote. 'Sweat more, bleed less! #Focused'