Paul Bamba, Puerto Rican Boxing Star, Dies at 35; had surpassed Mike Tyson's record just a week earlier

Atlanta (The Uttam Hindu): Paul Bamba, a Puerto Rican boxing champion has passed away at the age of 35 as confirmed by his manager R&B singer Ne-Yo. The news comes just days after Bamba’s remarkable victory where he claimed the WBA's secondary "gold" cruiserweight title by knocking out Rogelio Medina in the sixth round of their New Jersey bout. In a joint statement, Ne-Yo and Bamba’s family expressed their profound sorrow describing him as a determined competitor whose light touched countless lives.

Born in Rio Piedras, Puerto Rico, Bamba’s journey into boxing was unconventional. A former U.S. Marine he struggled with PTSD and homelessness after serving in Iraq. Boxing became his lifeline allowing him to rebuild his life. With guidance from trainers Aaron "Superman" Davis and Bobby Miles Bamba transformed his struggles into a professional boxing career in 2021. Known for his resilience he achieved a record of 19-3 with 18 knockouts and a stellar 2024 season winning all 14 matches by knockout.

At the time of his passing Bamba lived in Atlanta, working as Ne-Yo’s personal trainer while remaining dedicated to his boxing career. Tributes from the boxing community poured in including from Jake Paul and Mustafa Meekins his recent trainer. Meekins reflected, *“Crazy how life turns. Never know what day it’s all going to end. Be grateful for every moment.”* Bamba’s story of perseverance and passion has left a lasting impact on the boxing world and beyond.