WBA Gold Cruiserweight Champion Paul Bamba Dies at 35 After Winning Title

By Robert Brizel, Head Real Combat Media Boxing Correspondent

Only six days after winning the World Boxing Association Gold Cruiserweight title in the main event at Carteret, New Jersey, cruiserweight contender Paul Bamba, also a fitness guru and entrepreneur, has died at age 35, on December 24, 2025. No cause has been revealed.

Bamba, 19-3 with 18 knockouts, New York City, by way of Rio Piedras, Puerto Rico, stopped 42-10 Rogelio Medina after six rounds on December 21, 2024, at the Carteret Performing Arts Center in Carteret, New Jersey, then calling out Jake Paul after the bout.

Manager Ne-Yo released the following statement. “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. 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.”

Share
Robert Brizel - Head Boxing Correspondent
Robert Brizel - Head Boxing Correspondent
Robert is the Head Boxing Correspondent for Real Combat Media Boxing since 2013. Robert is also a photographer and ringside reporter for the RCM Tri State region which includes NJ, NY and PA. Robert conducts exclusive interviews, provides historical boxing articles and provides editorial ringside coverage of major boxing events. You can contact or follow Robert on Facebook and by email at [email protected].