Lionel Elika Fatupaito, a Samoan boxing instructor, died on Friday in the Olympic village from a stroke, according to the International Boxing Association and the Associated Press.
Elika Fatupaito was a member of the Samoan boxing coach squad that assisted Ato Plodzicki-Faoagali, the nation’s boxing representative at the 2024 Olympics in Paris and a strong medal contender who will compete in the 92-kg class on Sunday.
“No words can express how I feel but rest in love coach Lionel,” Plodzicki-Faoagali, 25, wrote on Instagram. “Our last picture together before you passed yesterday Grand Master.”
“I first met coach Lionel when I was 15 trialling for Samoa’s Youth team. He was a kind and generous coach, not only with his time, material things, but also his knowledge,” the athlete stated. “You will be sorely missed coach, your dream was to attend an Olympics with me and dad, now you’ve left too early we haven’t had our first fight at the Olympics like we planned!”
In the wake of Elika Fatupaito’s passing, the International Boxing Association also expressed sympathy.
“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.”
