Coach Lionel Elika Fatupaito was part of the team of Samoan boxing coaches supporting Olympian Ato Plodzicki-Faoagali
Samoan boxing coach Lionel Elika Fatupaito died in the Olympic village on Friday, as confirmed by officials.
Elika Fatupaito passed away from natural causes on Friday, July 26, according to the Associated Press. Both the International Boxing Association and Olympian Ato Plodzicki-Faoagali confirmed the sad news.
“No words can express how I feel but rest in love coach Lionel,” said Plodzicki-Faoagali, 25, in his Instagram story. “Our last picture together before you passed yesterday Grand Master.”
Plodzicki-Faoagali shared more heartfelt sentiments about his coach on Facebook.
“I first met coach Lionel when I was 15 trialing for Samoa’s Youth team. He was a kind and generous coach, not only with his time, material things, but also his knowledge,” the Olympian expressed. “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!”
“Rest well old man, gonna miss you out there, you were the calm one and dad the storm of our corner,” he added.
Elika Fatupaito was a vital part of the Samoan team, training Plodzicki-Faoagali, who is representing Samoa in boxing at the 2024 Paris Olympics. Competing in his second Olympics, Plodzicki-Faoagali is a strong medal contender, beginning his campaign in the 92-kg competition this Sunday.
The International Boxing Association also expressed their condolences following Elika Fatupaito’s passing.
“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,” they stated.
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