Boxer Paul Bamba dies aged 35… just six days after his final fight and weeks after signing with Ne-Yo
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 might 14 times this year and all were knockout victories.
He was due to fight Tommy Fury back in November 22 but the fight was scrapped because of weight problems.
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’
More to follow.
