Samoan boxing coach Lionel Elika Fatupaito tragically passed away at the age of 60 in the Olympic Village in Paris just hours before the 2024 Games officially began. He collapsed and suffered cardiac arrest, ultimately succumbing to “natural causes.” The International Boxing Association (IBA) expressed their condolences to Fatupaito’s family, friends, and colleagues, highlighting his dedication, passion, and the lasting impact he had on the boxing community. The IBA emphasized that Fatupaito’s legacy will continue to inspire future generations within the sport.
Fatupaito had traveled to France to assist in coaching Ato Plodzicki-Faoagali, the sole boxer representing Samoa at the Games. Plodzicki-Faoagali is scheduled to compete in the 92-kilogram category, facing off against Belgium’s Victor Schelstraete on Sunday. Born in Australia, the 25-year-old fighter is participating in his second Olympic Games. The Paris organizing committee released a statement expressing deep sorrow over the death of a member of the Samoan delegation, offering their sympathies to Fatupaito’s family, loved ones, and colleagues during this difficult time.
The sudden and untimely passing of Fatupaito has left the boxing community in mourning, as tributes pour in honoring his contributions and commitment to the sport. The impact of his coaching and mentorship will endure, serving as a source of inspiration for future generations of boxers both in Samoa and around the world. As the Olympic Games in Paris officially commence amidst this tragic loss, athletes and officials are coming together to remember and celebrate Fatupaito’s life and legacy.
Fatupaito’s dedication to boxing and his role as a coach for Samoa at the 2024 Games have left a lasting imprint on the sport, with his influence felt far beyond the bounds of the ring. The outpouring of support and condolences from the boxing community underscores the profound impact he had on those around him. As Plodzicki-Faoagali prepares to compete in honor of his coach and mentor, the spirit of Fatupaito lives on through the athletes he has inspired and guided.
The loss of Lionel Elika Fatupaito has cast a shadow over the opening of the 2024 Olympics in Paris, serving as a stark reminder of the fragility of life and the profound impact one individual can have on an entire community. As Team Samoa grapples with the devastating news of their coach’s passing, they are met with an outpouring of support and solidarity from the global sports community. Fatupaito’s memory will undoubtedly remain in the hearts and minds of those who had the privilege of knowing and working with him.
In the wake of Fatupaito’s passing, the boxing world mourns the loss of a talented coach and mentor whose legacy will endure for years to come. As the Games continue, athletes, officials, and fans alike will carry Fatupaito’s memory with them, honoring his contributions to the sport and the impact he had on the lives of those he coached. In the midst of this tragedy, the boxing community comes together to celebrate the life and legacy of Lionel Elika Fatupaito, a coach whose passion and dedication will forever be remembered.
