2024 Cruiserweight Gold Champion Paul Bamba has been confirmed dead just seven days after he won the prestigious boxing title in New Jersey, MySportDab reports.
Bamba is said to have recently signed a management deal with renowned American music artist Ne-Yo’s management company in what was regarded as a breakthrough moment for the burgeoning boxer.
His passing was confirmed in a sorrowful statement by the management company in liason with the boxers’ 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 reads.
Bamba, aged 35, has been tipped as one of the fast-rising fighters with a promising career. He was involved in 22 fights, winning 19 and losing 3.
His last fight before his passing earned him the prestigious WBA Gold Cruiserweight title after he floored his opponent Rogelio Medina Luna in New Jersey last Saturday.
Circumstances surrounding his sudden demise has been nothing less from mysterious with boxing fans sympathizing with the deceased and his family.
According to unconfirmed reports, Bamba suffered from brain issue – a medical challenge that must have impacted on his physical wellbeing.
However, it has yet to be established whether it contributed to his sudden death.
Investigations are expected to be conducted to unravel the immediate and remote causes of the death with some fans suggesting he must have fought more than necessary in the year leading to fatigue and other problems.
He fought 14 times in 2024, averaging over a fight per month, and winning all of them via knockouts.