Boxing coach dies suddenly at 2024 Olympics

The International Boxing Association (IBA) announced that coach Lionel Elika Fatupaito passed away at the athletes' village of the Paris 2024 Olympics.

According to Le Parisien, Lionel Elika Fatupaito suffered a heart attack and died of "natural causes".

"The International Boxing Association (IBA) would like to express its deepest condolences to the family, friends and colleagues of Lionel Elika Fatupaito, Samoa national boxing coach, who passed away in Paris on 26 July. Lionel’s dedication and passion for the sport left an indelible mark on the boxing community.

His legacy will continue to inspire future generations. Our thoughts and prayers are with the Samoa team and all those affected by this great loss.". IBA issued a notice.

President of the Samoa Olympic Committee, Mr. Pauga Talalelei Pauga, expressed his gratitude: "Lionel is one of Samoa's leading boxing coaches and a strong believer in the Olympic ideals.".

Mr. Lionel Elika Fatupaito is the coach of Plodzicki-Faoagali, the Samoan boxer at the 2024 Paris Olympics.

Plodzicki-Faoagali is a two-time Pacific Games champion and is Samoa's hope for the 2024 Paris Olympics. Today (July 28), Plodzicki-Faoagali will fight Belgian boxer Victor Schelstraete in the men's heavyweight qualifying round.

On his personal page, Victor Schelstraete expressed: "There are no words to describe my feelings right now. I mourn the loss of coach Lionel Elika Fatupaito.".