Championship boxer Paul Bamba has died at age 35, his manager Ne-Yo confirmed on Friday.
In a statement shared to Instagram, the 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 won the WBA Gold title on 21 December in New Jersey, less than a week before his death. He signed with Grammy-winning R&B singer shortly before the fight.
“I’m honoured to work with Ne-Yo 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.”
On 24 December, he posted a message on Instagram reflecting on his success this year.
“This year I set out with a goal. I did just that! It wasn’t easy, there were many obstacles that I adapted to overcome and stayed on the path we set regardless of extenuating circumstances,” Bamba wrote.
“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.”
A cause of death has not been made known.
