Boxing Coach Lionel Fatupaito Dies at Paris Olympics

The International Boxing Association (IBA) confirmed the sudden death of Lionel Elika Fatupaito, Samoa’s national boxing coach, at the 2024 Paris Olympics. Fatupaito, who was reportedly 60 years old, passed away in the Olympic Village on Friday morning. The cause of death was reported as natural.

Fatupaito was in Paris to coach Ato Plodzicki-Faoagali, the only Samoan boxer participating in the Olympics. Plodzicki-Faoagali, a two-time Pacific Games heavyweight champion, was scheduled to compete against Belgium’s Victor Schelstraete on Sunday.

The IBA expressed its deep condolences to Fatupaito’s family, friends, and colleagues in a statement. The association recognized Fatupaito’s dedication and passion for boxing, stating that his legacy would continue to inspire future generations. The IBA also extended its thoughts and prayers to Team Samoa and all those affected by this profound loss.

Fatupaito’s sudden death occurred on July 26, 2024, in the athletes’ village in Saint-Denis, Paris. His passing has left a significant impact on the boxing community, both in Samoa and internationally.

Plodzicki-Faoagali paid tribute to his coach in an emotional Instagram story, expressing his grief and loss. He wrote, “No words can express how I feel but rest in love Coach Lionel.”

The boxing competition at the 2024 Paris Olympics is scheduled to run from July 27 to August 10. Fatupaito’s untimely death has cast a shadow over the event, reminding the global community of the human element behind the spectacle of the Games.