Professional boxer Paul Bamba has died at the age of 35.
Bamba was managed by singer Ne-Yo, who confirmed his death via a joint statement with the athlete’s family on Friday, December 27.
“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.”
The note concluded, “We are heartbroken by his passing and kindly ask for privacy and understanding during this difficult time as we collectively navigate our grief.”
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Ne-Yo, 45, shared the same statement on his Instagram Story set to Nipsey Hussle’s “Victory Lap.”
Bamba signed with Ne-Yo’s management company in November. It marked the musician’s first foray into the boxing ring.
“To be completely honest? Just belief in the fighter,” the “Miss Independent” singer told NBC News last month of the career move. “Realizing places I could help him, realizing places he could help me, it all made sense. You miss 100 percent of the shots you don’t shoot. So let me see what it’s about, let me give it a try.”
Ne-Yo, in particular, was inspired by Bamba’s “drive and dedication to a cause.”
“You’d be surprised how rare that is nowadays,” he added at the time. “Like everybody wants something handed to them. You know what I mean? Everybody wants it the quick and easy way. And Paul Bamba is not one of them cats.”
Six days before Bamba’s sudden passing — a cause of death has not been confirmed — he was crowned WBA Gold Cruiserweight champion after a fight against Rogelio Medina.
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“This year I set out with a goal. I did just that,” Bamba wrote via Instagram on Wednesday, December 25. “Wasn’t easy there were many obstacles that I adapted to overcame and kept on the path we set regardless of extenuating circumstances. 14 fights. 14 knockouts ending with the WBA GOLD cruiserweight world title.”
He gushed, “Blessed to have my family my team and all my supporters along the way. That being said if you got what some might call an ‘outlandish goal,’ GO chase it. Anyone who thinks that isn’t as brave as you, prove people wrong!”
After the victory, Ne-Yo also paid tribute via his Instagram.
“The best is yet to come. Congrats my guy!!” he wrote earlier this week. “Honored to be your manager. Let’s keep going!!!”
