NE-YO PAYS TRIBUTE TO BOXER PAUL BAMBA

Bamba was a rising star in the boxing world.

Tragedy has struck the boxing world with the sudden passing of Paul Bamba at age 35. The talented Puerto Rican boxer left an indelible mark on the sport before his tragic death on December 27, 2024.

Born on August 15, 1989, Bamba’s rise to fame was nothing short of meteoric. He won the WBA Gold cruiserweight title just days before his passing, defeating Rogelio Medina on December 21, 2024.

Bamba’s career was marked by notable achievements, including a highly publicized bout against British boxer Tommy Fury in 2022.

The fight had eventually been cancelled but Bamba’s determination earned him a reputation as a formidable opponent.

Last month, Bamba broke Mike Tyson’s record for most boxing wins in a calendar year via knockout with 14 knockouts throughout the year. This achievement cemented his status as one of the most exciting and promising young boxers in the sport.

But Bamba’s success wasn’t just limited to the ring. He also caught the attention of American entertainer Ne-Yo, who signed him to his sports management company in November 2024.

The two had met earlier, when Bamba was training Ne-Yo in boxing as part of the singer’s workout routine.

Their friendship and professional partnership were a testament to Bamba’s charisma and talent, both in and out of the ring.

Paul Bamba, A fierce Yet Confident Competitor

Ne-Yo had been excited to announce his partnership with boxing champion, Paul Bamba. Unfortunately, his excitement and the partnership were short-lived as Bamba tragically passed away a couple of weeks later.

Although the cause of death remains undisclosed, an official statement from Ne-Yo and Bamba’s family shared on Instagram confirmed the tragic news.

Ne-Yo’s joint statement with Bamba’s family says: “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.

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.”

Ne-Yo’s statement, shared on behalf of himself and Bamba’s family, paid tribute to the boxer’s memory and legacy.

As we await further details about Bamba’s passing, fans and fellow athletes are coming together to mourn the loss of the talented young boxer who had so much promise and potential.

Bamba’s partnership with Ne-Yo’s management company had been seen as an exciting new chapter and his passing is a devastating blow to all who knew him.

As the boxing world comes to terms with this tragic loss, we remember Paul Bamba’s achievement, his passion for the sport, and the impact he had on those around him.