The sudden death of Paul Bamba has rocked the world of boxing.
The 35-year-old was fresh off a win over Mexican fighter Rogelio Medina, which saw him become the WBA Gold Cruiserweight champion on 21 December.
Paul Bamba used his post-fight speech to call out Jake Paul, who is looking for his next opponent after attracting 60 million people to Netflix for his fight with Mike Tyson last month.
The Puerto Rican boxer went 14-0 in 2024 to improve his professional boxing record to 19-3 and set himself up for a breakout year in 2025.
Paul Bamba 1989-2024
On Friday, singer Ne-Yo, who signed Bamba to his management company in November, confirmed his client’s passing in a joint statement with the boxer’s grieving family
“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 read.
“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.
“We are heartbroken by his passing and kindly ask for privacy and understanding during this difficult time as we collectively navigate our grief.”
Boxing community pays tribute to Paul Bamba
Jake Paul leads the long list of influencer boxers who have paid tribute to Bamba since the news of his premature passing broke.
“RIP Paul Bamba,” he tweeted on Saturday morning.
“He was too young,” KSI wrote on X.
“Saddened to hear about Paul Bamba, news completely out of the blue,” boxing promoters Kalle and Nisee Sauerland said. “Thoughts with his family and friends at this difficult time.
Former running back in the NFL, Le’Veon Bell, who has boxed three times as a pro in the crossover circuit added: “Damn damn damn..just damn, RIP Paul Bamba .. damn this one kinda hit home, not gon lie.”
Slim Albaher said: “RIP Paul Bamba, very kind heart dude. Very sad news to hear”