"From 90,000 to 90 million CFA francs": five things to know about Yves Beye, Ama Baldé's former boxing coach



In its "Where Are They Now?" section, Le Soleil looks back at the career of the former professional boxer who transitioned into technical coaching. For many years, he was Ama Baldé's right-hand man and boxing coach before moving to the United States in December 2023. From his beginnings in the boxing centers of Pikine and Guédiawaye to his integration into the Falaye Baldé stable, the coach recounts his journey alongside the "Seuleu bou Ndaw" (the youngest boxer).

1. From boxing to coaching wrestlers

Originally from Pikine, Yves Bèye started the sport at the age of 15. After attending several centers, participating in the national championship and joining the Senegalese team, he ended his sporting career following a hand injury to transition into technical coaching.

2. He trained Ama Baldé from the very beginning

Recruited by the Falaye Baldé stable, Yves Bèye claims to have taught the wrestler the basics of boxing even before his official debut in the arena. He then accompanied him from his first fight against Oussou Ndiaye until the confrontation against Modou Lô in 2023, with training sessions combining running in the dunes, boxing, and physical conditioning.

3. From 90,000 to 90 million CFA francs

The coach testifies to the generosity of Ama Baldé, whom he considers his "younger brother" and his "champion." He states that he supported him "from his first purse of 90,000 CFA francs to 90 million," while emphasizing that the wrestler always made sure to give him a share of his earnings, even outside of competition periods.

4. Battles and Highlights

The former coach reflects on several key moments in Ama Baldé's career, notably his victories against Malick Niang and Papa Sow. He also recounts the profound disappointment of the postponement of his fight against Modou Lô, following an injury to the wrestler. This period, according to him, was one of the most difficult times he experienced alongside his protégé.

5. A new life in the United States

Yves Bèye left Senegal on December 15, 2023, to join his younger sister in the United States. After four months, he found a job there and says he has accomplished things in one year and nine months that he might never have been able to achieve by staying in Senegal. Settled far from his wife and children, he nevertheless says he continues to rely on the values he learned in Senegal, particularly "hard work, dignity, and diligence."