World champion boxer Paul Bamba has tragically died at the age of 35, just days after making history and challenging Jake Paul to "come get it". Last weekend, Paul clinched the WBA Gold Cruiserweight world title in New Jersey after defeating Rogelio Medina. This victory marked his 14th knockout in 2024, surpassing the record previously held by legendary heavyweight Mike Tyson. Born in Puerto Rico, the American boxer boasted a career record of 19-3 and had recently challenged Jake Paul following his triumph over Medina. However, just six days post-victory, he was found dead.
Paul, whose career was supported by American singer Ne-Yo's recently established a boxing management venture, leaves the US boxing community in profound shock. Ne-Yo, along with Paul's family, issued a heart-wrenching statement: "It is with profound sorrow that we announced the passing of beloved son, brother, friend and boxing champion Paul Bamba, whose light and love touched countless lives." The statement further praised his remarkable qualities, saying: "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," reports the Express.
Paul certainly made a splash in the boxing world this year, taking on fight after fight and emerging victorious every time. His Instagram message captured the essence of his triumphs: "This year I set out with a goal. I did just that! 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."
"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!"
And the celebrations didn't stop there, as his manager Ne-Yo proudly shared on social media: "Last night PAUL BAMBA made history! Breaking Mike Tyson's record, 14 fights in one year ALL RESULTING IN KNOCKOUTS! Ending the year with a cruiser weight WORLD TITLE!! And the best is yet to come. Congrats my guy!! Honored to be your manager. Let's keep going!!!"
Before his passing, Paul had Jake Paul in his sights, challenging the boxer to a fight: "[Jake Paul] you can come get it, you can come fight for it or whatever, you can keep doing the gimmick fights."
Taking to social media, he boasted about his undefeated record in the ring. "At the end of the day, I've put in the work. You can say you've taken boxing seriously and yeah you've made a lot of money but you haven't earned anything in boxing."
