Mourning in the Olympics: Boxing coach Lionel Elika Fatupaito dies at 60

• Lionel Elika Fatupaito dies.
• Condolences on social media.
• Shock at the Olympics.

The boxing community is in mourning following the tragic death of Lionel Elika Fatupaito, coach of the Samoa boxing team, at the Olympic Village in Seine-Saint-Denis.

The sad news was confirmed on Saturday, July 27, by the Bobigny prosecutor’s office and the International Boxing Association (IBA).

The 60-year-old coach was in his room with one of the boxers around 10:20 AM local time when he began to feel unwell.

Unfortunately, the coach suffered a heart attack after starting to feel ill.

Shock at the Olympics

Despite the rapid intervention of the Olympic Village emergency services, Fatupaito could not be saved.

«We extend our deepest condolences to the family, friends, and colleagues of Lionel Elika Fatupaito,» says the IBA statement.

It was there that they confirmed he was «the national boxing coach of Samoa, who tragically passed away.»

According to initial investigations, the cause of death was likely the heart attack he suffered.

The judicial police of Seine-Saint-Denis have taken over the investigation to clarify the circumstances, as reported by El Heraldo de México.

«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,» they said.

«Our thoughts and prayers are with the Samoa team and everyone affected by this profound loss,» added the IBA.

The President of the Samoa Olympic Committee, Luafalealo Paige Talalelei, also confirmed and expressed sorrow over the coach’s death.

Lionel Elika Fatupaito was recognized as one of Samoa’s leading coaches and was in Paris preparing boxer Tupuola Ato Plodzicki-Faoagali.

Additionally, he had proudly represented Samoa on numerous occasions as both a boxer and coach, as detailed by Marca.

With a style that combined solid defense and powerful attack, he stood out in the Pacific Games.

His career and dedication made him a true inspiration for young Samoans.

Fatupaito was not only known for his skill in the ring but also for his passion for training and developing new generations of boxers.

His influence and legacy in Samoan sports are undeniable, and his loss leaves a deep void in the sporting community.

The impact of his death is felt not only in Samoa but also throughout the international boxing community.

Several coaches, boxers, and federations have expressed their condolences and paid tribute to the legacy of the Samoan coach.

Messages on social media

American boxing coach Freddie Roach expressed his sorrow through his social media, as noted by Marca and El Heraldo de México.

«We lost a great man and an excellent coach. Lionel was an inspiration to many, and his legacy will live on in all who had the honor of knowing him,» he said.

Professional boxer Anthony Joshua also shared his thoughts: «Lionel was a true ambassador of boxing. My thoughts are with his family and the Samoa team.»

Fatupaito’s death is a heavy blow to the Samoa team, especially at such a crucial time as the Olympic Games. Here is a photo.

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