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 yr. As a outcome, Bamba possible elevated his earnings, internet value and total standing as a rising boxing star. But simply six days after successful the world championship title, the 35-year-old abruptly died in December 2024. Bamba’s supervisor, Ne-Yo, and his household confirmed the information in a press release.
“It is with profound sorrow that we introduced the passing of beloved son, brother, pal and boxing champion Paul Bamba, whose gentle 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. But greater than something, he was an amazing person who impressed many together with his distinctive drive and willpower. We are heartbroken by his passing and kindly ask for privateness and understanding throughout this tough time as we collectively navigate our grief.”
Learn extra about Bamba and his profession right here.
Who Was Paul Bamba?
Bamba was a cruiserweight and lightweight heavyweight boxer. With 18 wins by a knockout below his belt, the Puerto Rico native was on his method to worldwide fame. In 2022, Bamba opened up about his journey after transferring to New York City “to make it in life,” he wrote in a prolonged Instagram caption.
“When I look again and bear 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, dwell on the trains of New York City totaling 15 months (6 practice & 7 at one level) — I understand 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 understand I’ve all the time been the underdog & that’s okay, ’trigger so long as I bust my ass & maintain myself ACCOUNTABLE, ultimately it WILL all pan out [sic],” he added. “I say that to say this: NOTHING is ideal and by no means can 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. If you might have a DREAM, go CHASE it. Embrace your battle. Bet on your self and DEFY the chances. If you’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 Net Worth?
It’s unclear the place Bamba’s internet value stands. However, boxers are inclined to make between lots of of hundreds of {dollars} to thousands and thousands of {dollars} after successful a world title, particularly towards well-known fighters. So, it’s possible that Bamba racked up a number of hundred thousand {dollars} after establishing himself as a powerful boxer. However, his actual earnings are nonetheless unknown.
In 2022, Bamba’s struggle towards Tommy Fury was known as off as a result of a weight dispute. At the time, fellow boxer Jake Paul advocated for Bamba and demanded that he obtain truthful compensation.
One factor I’m by no means going to do is do enterprise with individuals who don’t deal with fighters properly. Pay Paul Bamba.
— Jake Paul (@jakepaul) November 23, 2022
In an change over X, Bamba and Paul mentioned pay disparities within the boxing world. Bamba tweeted to Paul, “They don’t pay, and so they deal with fighters very badly. I do know you gained’t have the cash points with them however others will down the highway. You’ll be co-signing them should you 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 properly. Pay Paul Bamba.”
How Did Paul Bamba Die?
Bamba’s official reason behind dying 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 problem,” Rising Star Promotions revealed in a press release on Instagram. It’s nonetheless unclear what the well being problem was and whom RSP was referring to in its announcement.