CHINA — Former FC Cincinnati striker Aaron Boupendza has died, according to the Gabonaise Football Federation. He was 28.
According to Turkiye Today, Boupendza fell from his 11th-floor residence in an apartment building in China. An investigation into the cause of Boupendza's fall is underway.
Boupendza was playing for Chinese soccer club Zhejiang FC at the time of his death. His contract with FC Cincinnati was terminated in August of 2024. He played in the Turkish Super League before that.
Boupendza, who is from the country of Gabon in Africa, first signed with FC Cincinnati in June 2023, learning about FC Cincinnati through Instagram DMs with midfielder Obinna Nwobodo. He made 35 appearances for FC Cincinnati, finishing with nine goals and five assists.
He became affectionately known as "Boup" during his year with FCC, inspiring supporters in the Bailey to chant "Boup, there it is!" when he did something positive on the pitch.
Hear FC Cincinnati's response to Boupendza's death in the video below:
Boupendza was known for his physical style of play and his strong leg that could score from long-range.
FC Cincinnati released the following statement about Boupendza's death:
"We are saddened to hear of the tragic passing of former FC Cincinnati forward Aaron Boupendza earlier today at his home in China. Our hearts go out to his family, friends, and teammates. He was a loved member of the FC Cincinnati family, and we offer our condolences to all who knew him."
Boup's time in Cincinnati was not without controversy.
In May of 2024, The Athletic first reported that Boupendza allegedly broke his jaw during a bar fight. He was punched by a professional boxer outside Rusconi Bar & Kitchen in downtown Cincinnati and was out for several weeks following surgery.
The club only explained Boupendza's broken jaw as "an off-field injury."
