Cruiserweight boxer Paul Bamba passed away at age 35.
No cause of death was revealed. Bamba just fought last week on December 21st and scored a sixth-round stoppage over former world title challenger Porky Medina in Carteret, New Jersey. In that bout, he captured the WBA Gold Championship which raised his record to 19-3 with 18 knockouts.
Bamba was managed by singer Ne-Yo
In a statement shared to Instagram, the 45-year-old singer and manager, along with Bamba’s family, confirmed the boxer’s death.
“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 began.
“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.”
Bamba’s family and manager added that they are “heartbroken” by his passing and “kindly ask for privacy and understanding during this difficult time as we collectively navigate our grief.”
