Boxer Bakary Samake at the center of a media storm after a sexual video went viral on social media

At 22, Bakary Samaké embodies the promise of a bright future for French boxing. Eighteen wins, no losses, a WBC Silver belt won in November 2024, brilliantly defended this spring against South African Roarke Knapp.

But it's a non-sporting sequence that has thrust him into the spotlight today. For all the wrong reasons.

Since Monday, July 14, an intimate video of the young boxer has been circulating widely on social media. Filmed in the street, during the day, alongside a laughing friend, Samaké appears receiving oral sex from a squatting woman.

The champion quickly spoke out in a statement posted on Instagram . "An inappropriate video is currently circulating without my consent, in violation of my privacy," he wrote.

Far from shirking his responsibility, he offers "his most sincere apologies to all those who may have been shocked, hurt or disappointed by this situation" , citing in order his community, his wife, his family, his partners and all the people who support him.

A blow to his image

In his response, Samaké acknowledges the expectations associated with his status as a top athlete. "I am aware that I must be an example," he confesses, promising to fight to regain the public's trust, "not with words, but with actions."

He clarifies, however, that this episode does not define him: "This situation in no way reflects the values that I defend, nor the person that I wish to be."

More than a slip-up, the affair takes the form of sabotage orchestrated by untrustworthy relatives.

"I learned with pain that some people I thought were my friends were not, and that jealousy and blackmail can push some people to deliberately harm ." A "grave and profound betrayal," in his words.

A counterattack in court?

Determined not to remain passive, Samaké announced that he has initiated legal proceedings. "Legal measures" have been taken to shed full light on this invasion of his privacy.

At this stage, it is unknown the exact date of the recording or any disciplinary repercussions he may face from his federation.