Lionel Elika Fatupaito, the head boxing coach of Samoa, passed away on Friday at the 2024 Paris Olympics after reportedly experiencing cardiac arrest in the Olympic village. He was 60 years old.
The International Boxing Association confirmed Fatupaito’s death in a statement released on Saturday.
“We at the International Boxing Association (IBA) express our deepest sympathies to the family, friends, and colleagues of Lionel Elika Fatupaito, the national boxing coach of Samoa, who sadly passed away during the Paris 2024 event.”
“Lionel’s commitment and enthusiasm for the sport have made a lasting impact on the boxing community. His legacy will motivate future generations. Our thoughts and prayers are with Team Samoa and everyone affected by this monumental loss,” the statement added.
According to AFP, Fatupaito died while in the Olympic village, where he received attention from emergency services. His death has been attributed to “natural causes.”
This is a developing news story; please check back for updates.
