IBA Announces Death Of Samoa Boxing Coach Lionel Elika Fatupaito At Olympics
Date
7/28/2024 3:10:35 PM
(MENAFN- AzerNews)
The International Boxing Association (IBA) has announced the
death of Lionel Elika Fatupaito, the national boxing coach of
Samoa, Azernews reports citing Eurosport .
The 60-year-old reportedly passed away at the Olympic Village on
Friday ahead of the Opening Ceremony.
The IBA extended its“heartfelt condolences” to the loved ones
of the legendary coach in a statement on Saturday confirming the
news.
"We at the International Boxing Association (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 the Paris 2024 games," it read.
"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."
Samoan Olympic Committee president Pauga Talalelei Pauga said
the coach would be“greatly missed”.
“Our thoughts and those of the entire Samoan sporting community
are with Lionel's family, his boxers and friends. He will be
greatly missed," he said.
Samoa has just one boxer participating in the 2024 Paris Games,
with two-time Pacific Games champion Ato Plodzicki-Faoagali
competing in the 92kg class.
Plodzicki-Faoagali is one of the favourites in the competition
and is set to fight Belgium's Victor Schelstraete on Sunday.
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