Paul Bamba had simply etched his identify into the boxing world. Since 2022, he had steadily risen to prominence and even broke Mike Tyson‘s report for probably the most boxing wins in a single 12 months. In consequence, Bamba possible elevated his earnings, web price and general standing as a rising boxing star. However simply six days after profitable the world championship title, the 35-year-old instantly died in December 2024. Bamba’s supervisor, Ne-Yo, and his household confirmed the information in a press release.
“It’s with profound sorrow that we introduced the passing of beloved son, brother, good friend and boxing champion Paul Bamba, whose mild and love touched numerous lives,” the announcement from Ne-Yo and Bamba’s household learn. “He was a fierce but assured competitor with an unrelenting ambition to attain greatness. However greater than something, he was an incredible person that impressed many along with his distinctive drive and willpower. We’re heartbroken by his passing and kindly ask for privateness and understanding throughout this troublesome time as we collectively navigate our grief.”
Be taught extra about Bamba and his profession right here.
Who Was Paul Bamba?
Bamba was a cruiserweight and light-weight heavyweight boxer. With 18 wins by a knockout beneath his belt, the Puerto Rico native was on his strategy to worldwide fame. In 2022, Bamba opened up about his journey after transferring to New York Metropolis “to make it in life,” he wrote in a prolonged Instagram caption.
“After I look again and keep in mind I needed to sleep by the range for heat, hand wash then dry my garments within the oven (low temps work promise) eat MANY uncomfortable sleeps for dinner — And when that wasn’t sufficient, stay on the trains of New York Metropolis totaling 15 months (6 prepare & 7 at one level) — I notice I’m actually simply constructed for regardless of the f**okay is thrown at me, and I set my sights on [sic],” Bamba wrote.
The late fighter added that his childhood dream was to grow to be a boxer.
“I notice I’ve all the time been the underdog & that’s okay, ’trigger so long as I bust my ass & maintain myself ACCOUNTABLE, finally it WILL all pan out [sic],” he added. “I say that to say this: NOTHING is ideal and by no means shall be. The time to behave is all the time NOW, questioning what if is far more painful than struggling by way of the method, YOUR PROCESS. You probably have a DREAM, go CHASE it. Embrace your wrestle. Guess on your self and DEFY the chances. For those who’re alone like I used to be by way of some insufferable issues, perceive your biggest strengths lie inside YOU ready to floor!”
What Was Paul Bamba’s Web Value?
It’s unclear the place Bamba’s web price stands. Nevertheless, boxers are inclined to make between a whole lot of 1000’s of {dollars} to tens of millions of {dollars} after profitable a world title, particularly towards well-known fighters. So, it’s possible that Bamba racked up just a few hundred thousand {dollars} after establishing himself as a powerful boxer. Nevertheless, his precise earnings are nonetheless unknown.
In 2022, Bamba’s struggle towards Tommy Fury was known as off as a result of a weight dispute. On the time, fellow boxer Jake Paul advocated for Bamba and demanded that he obtain honest compensation.
One factor I’m by no means going to do is do enterprise with individuals who don’t deal with fighters effectively. Pay Paul Bamba.
— Jake Paul (@jakepaul) November 23, 2022
In an trade over X, Bamba and Paul mentioned pay disparities within the boxing world. Bamba tweeted to Paul, “They don’t pay, they usually deal with fighters very badly. I do know you gained’t have the cash points with them however others will down the street. You’ll be co-signing them if you happen to do it.”
In response to Bamba, Paul tweeted, “One factor I’m by no means going to do is do enterprise with individuals who don’t deal with fighters effectively. Pay Paul Bamba.”
How Did Paul Bamba Die?
Bamba’s official reason for loss of life has not been publicly disclosed, however as followers grieve his loss, many are speculating about how he died.
Three months earlier than Bamba died, his match in September was canceled on the final minute as a result of an “unexpected medical subject,” Rising Star Promotions revealed in a press release on Instagram. It’s nonetheless unclear what the well being subject was and whom RSP was referring to in its announcement.
