Puerto Rican boxer Paul Bamba has died at the age of 35, his manager, R&B singer Shaffer “Ne-Yo” Smith, announced Friday. The news comes less than a week after Bamba claimed the WBA’s secondary ‘gold’ cruiserweight title with a sixth-round knockout against Rogelio Medina in New Jersey.
Bamba’s death was confirmed in a joint statement from Ne-Yo and Bamba’s family. “It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of beloved son, brother, friend and boxing champion Paul Bamba, whose light and love touched countless lives,” the statement said. It also described Bamba as a fierce competitor with a relentless drive for greatness.
The Puerto Rican fighter had a remarkable 2024, winning all fourteen bouts by knockout. His title victory last week capped a career comeback after three early defeats. Bamba, whose record was 19-3 with 18 knockouts, was widely regarded for his resilience and determination.
Born in Rio Piedras, Puerto Rico, Bamba’s journey to the ring was unconventional. He served in the U.S. Marine Corps, where he struggled with PTSD after a tour in Iraq. Faced with homelessness, he turned to boxing as a way to rebuild his life. He trained at the Morris Park Boxing Club in the Bronx and credited the sport with saving him.
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“Boxing literally saved my life,” Bamba said in an interview. He initially sparred for $10 a round before being mentored by trainers Aaron ‘Superman’ Davis and Bobby Miles. They helped him channel his struggles into a professional career that began in 2021.
Bamba’s journey has included a stint in influencer boxing and a canceled fight with Tommy Fury in 2022. He recently called up Jake Paul, hoping his title would position him for high-profile fights. Paul paid tribute to Bamba on social media, writing: “RIP Paul Bamba.”
At the time of his death, Bamba was living in Atlanta and working as Ne-Yo’s personal trainer. Despite his demanding schedule, he remained committed to his boxing career, often training while on tour.
Tributes poured in from across the boxing world. Mustafa Meekins, who trained Bamba for his title win, wrote on Instagram: “Crazy how life changes. You never know what day it will all end. Be grateful for every moment and appreciate it all.”