The International Boxing Association announced Saturday that Samoan boxing coach Lionel Elika Fatupaito died while in Paris for the 2024 Summer Olympics.
Per Aadi Nair of Reuters, the IBA released the following statement regarding Fatupaito’s death:
“We at the IBA extend our heartfelt condolences to the family, friends, and colleagues of Lionel Elika Fatupaito, the national boxing coach of Samoa, who tragically passed away during Paris 2024.
“Lionel’s dedication and passion for the sport have left an indelible mark on the boxing community. His legacy will continue to inspire future generations. Our thoughts and prayers are with Team Samoa and all those affected by this profound loss.”
Fatupaito was in France to coach Ato Plodzicki-Faoagali, who is the only Samoan athlete competing in boxing at the Summer Games.
The 25-year-old Plodzicki-Faoagali, who is competing as a heavyweight, is 2-0 as a professional boxer and and won a gold medal at the 2023 Pacific Games.
He also competed at the 2020 Summer Olympics in Tokyo, losing his only bout to Belarus’ Uladzislau Smiahlikau.
Plodzicki-Faoagali is set to face Belgium’s Victor Schelstraete in his first fight at the 2024 Olympics on Sunday.
