Samoan Boxing Coach Lionel Elika Fatupaito Dies at Olympic Games Paris 2024

In a tragic turn of events at the 2024 Paris Olympics, Lionel Elika Fatupaito, the esteemed boxing coach of Samoa, passed away on Friday due to cardiac arrest while in the Olympic village. Fatupaito was 60 years old.

The International Boxing Association (IBA) confirmed his death in a heartfelt announcement on Saturday. “Our deepest condolences go out to the family, friends, and colleagues of Lionel Elika Fatupaito, Samoa’s national boxing coach, who has sadly passed during the Paris 2024 Olympics," the statement read.

“Lionel’s commitment and enthusiasm for boxing have profoundly impacted the community. His legacy will continue to inspire future generations. Our thoughts and prayers are with Team Samoa and everyone touched by this significant loss."

Reports indicate that Fatupaito received immediate attention from emergency services at the Olympic Village. His death has been classified as due to natural causes.

Boxing’s first day at the Paris Olympic Games was also on Saturday.

Samoa is represented by a single athlete in boxing at the Paris Olympics, Ato Plodzicki-Faoagali, who is competing in the men’s heavyweight category.

Plodzicki-Faoagali, 25, is the leading contender in the 92kg division, which kicks off on Sunday.

In his quest for a medal, he will compete against Belgium’s Victor Schelstraete in the round of 16.