Gabonese Football Star Aaron Boupendza Dies After Falling From the 11th Floor of a Building in China

Victor Nwoko
Apr 17
2 min read

Gabon's Aaron Boupendza in action during the 2022 Africa Cup of Nations against Burkina Faso. The forward played in Saudi Arabia, the US and China, where he died this week.

Gabonese international and former FC Cincinnati forward Aaron Boupendza has died at the age of 28 after falling from the 11th floor of a building in China, where he was living and playing professionally. The tragic incident was confirmed by the Gabonese Football Federation.

Boupendza, who joined Chinese Super League side Zhejiang FC earlier in the year, had previously played in Major League Soccer (MLS) with FC Cincinnati. The forward made a notable impact during his time in the U.S., contributing to the team’s historic success in 2023.

The striker was acquired by FC Cincinnati in June 2023 from Saudi Pro League club Al-Shabab FC. He quickly proved his worth, scoring five goals in 10 appearances (six starts), including a crucial game-winning goal in a 3-2 victory over Toronto FC on September 30, 2023. That win secured the Supporters' Shield for FC Cincinnati, marking a significant achievement in the club's history.

In the 2024 season, Boupendza recorded two goals and one assist across 14 matches, five of which he started. However, his time with the club was not without controversy. He was suspended by FC Cincinnati for the final match of the 2023 regular season after returning late from international duty. His contract with MLS was ultimately terminated in August 2024.

Off the field, Boupendza reportedly faced personal challenges, including a blackmail attempt in January 2024 and a physical altercation three months later that resulted in a broken jaw. The incident involved a professional boxer outside a downtown establishment.

His untimely death has sent shockwaves through the football community, with former teammates, fans, and clubs expressing their condolences and mourning the loss of a talented and passionate player.

Boupendza began his professional career in Europe and went on to represent Gabon at the international level, gaining recognition for his attacking flair and goal-scoring ability. His sudden passing marks a heartbreaking end to a career filled with promise and achievement.