Tragedy Strikes Boxing Community as Samuel ‘Tsunami’ Teah Falls Victim to Thanksgiving Weekend Gun Violence
In a heartbreaking incident over the Thanksgiving holiday weekend, Samuel ‘Tsunami’ Teah, a highly respected boxer, became the tragic target of gun violence.
BoxingScene.com has confirmed the devastating news that Teah was shot and killed in Philadelphia on Friday. While details surrounding the situation remain unclear, it was revealed that the junior welterweight prospect found himself unexpectedly entangled in a domestic dispute that took a tragic turn.
At 36 years old, Teah’s untimely passing has left a void in the boxing world.
In a poignant social media post on Friday, Rashiem Jefferson, Teah’s head trainer, expressed his sorrow, saying, “Sad news today, I lost a brother, a fighter, a friend, a whatever you could think of. This was a huge hurt piece. God’s time is the best timing. I don’t know why or where but I know God had another place for you and that’s the only thing that eases the pain.”
Teah’s journey in the boxing realm transitioned from prospect to spoiler over his ten-year professional career, marked by personal triumphs and tragedies.
Born in Liberia, Teah and his family sought refuge in Ghana when he was five, escaping the civil war in Liberia. After five years, they made their way to the United States, settling first in New York City before making Philadelphia their permanent home for over 25 years.
Teah faced profound personal loss at the age of 21 when a December 2008 fire claimed the lives of several family members, including his mother, sisters, older brother, an 18-month nephew, two nieces, and a family friend. In remembrance, Teah wore “12-26-08” on his trunks throughout his career.
His boxing journey had its highs and lows, with televised losses to Montana Love and Brandun Lee. However, Teah also boasted victories over notable opponents like O’Shaquie Foster, who later secured and still holds the WBC junior lightweight title, and Kenneth Sims Jr., now a junior welterweight contender.
