Boxer Paul Bamba dies aged 35, manager Ne-Yo pays tribute

Professional boxer Paul Bamba has died at the age of 35.

Bamba was managed by the singer Ne-Yowho confirmed his death via a joint statement with the athlete’s family on Friday, December 27.

“It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of the beloved son, brother, friend and boxing champion Paul Bamba, whose light and love touched countless lives,” the statement read. “He was a fierce but confident competitor with a relentless ambition to achieve greatness. But more than anything, he was a tremendous individual who inspired many with his unique drive and determination.”

The note concluded: “We are devastated by his passing and kindly ask for privacy and understanding during this difficult time as we collectively navigate our grief.”

Ne-Yo, 45, shared the same statement on his Instagram Story set to Nipsey Hussles “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 believe in the fighter,” the “Miss Independent” singer shared NBC News last month of the career change. “Realizing places where I could help him, realizing places where he could help me, it all made sense. You miss 100 percent of the shots you don’t make. So let me see what it’s all about, let me try the.”

Ne-Yo was particularly inspired by Bamba’s “drive and dedication to a cause.”

“You’d be surprised how rare that is today,” 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 those 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 Wednesday, December 25. “It was not easy, there were many obstacles that I adapted to overcome and stayed on the path we chose, regardless of extenuating circumstances. 14 matches. 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. Having said that, if you got what some might call an ‘outlandish goal’ then GO for it. Anyone who believes that isn’t as brave as you, proving people wrong!”

After the win, 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 continue!!!”