Boxing coach dies at the age of 60 in Olympic village after suffering cardiac arrest

"Lionel was one of Samoa's top boxing coaches and a great believer in the Olympic ideal," their statement read.

"Our thoughts and those of the entire Samoan sporting community are with Lionel's family, his boxers and friends. He will be greatly missed."

The International Boxing Association (IBA) also released a heartfelt statement paying tribute to the 60-year-old.

"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," their statement read.

"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."

Heavyweight boxer Ato Plodzicki-Faoagali is the only Samoan boxer competing at the Paris Olypics.

He paid tribute to his former coach on social media with a photo of them together at the Olympics.

"No words can express how I feel but rest in love coach Lionel," his message read.

"Our last photo together before you passed yesterday Grand Master..."

Plodzicki-Faoagali is a two-time Pacific Games champion and is among the favourites in the men's 92kg category.

He begins his Olympics against Belgian Victor Schelstraete, who won bronze at the 2021 World Championships as a cruiserweight.

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Samoa have brought 24 athletes to the Paris Olympics with half the squad competing in the Rugby Sevens event.

They also have athletes in athletics, canoeing, judo, sailing, swimming, weightlifting and wrestling.

Ele Opeloge is the last Samoan athlete to win a medal at an Olympic Games back in 2008 in the women's +75kg weightlifting category.