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Championship boxer Paul Bamba died age 35, his manager Ne-Yo confirmed on Dec. 27.
In a statement shared to Instagram, the musician and manager, along with Bamba’s family, confirmed the boxer’s death.
“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 read.
“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.”
Bamba had just claimed the WBA Gold Cruiserweight title on Dec. 21, less than one week before his death.