Joe
Lionel Fatu Elika, the esteemed national boxing coach of Samoa, tragically passed away on Friday at the age of 60 during the 2024 Paris Olympics.
Elika reportedly suffered a cardiac arrest while at the Olympic village.
The Samoa Association of Sport and National Olympic Committee (SASNOC) confirmed his death in a statement. Pauga Talalelei Pauga, president of Samoa NOC, expressed profound sorrow, stating, “Lionel was one of Samoa’s top boxing coaches and a great believer in the Olympic ideal.
“Our thoughts and those of the entire Samoan sporting community are with Lionel’s family, his boxers, and friends. He will be greatly missed.”
According to AFP, emergency services treated Elika at the Olympic village following the cardiac arrest. His death was classified as due to “natural causes.”
The International Boxing Association (IBA) also extended their condolences. “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,” read their statement, which used a different spelling of Elika’s name.
“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,” the IBA statement continued.
