Ne-Yo, the three-time Grammy-winning R&B artist known for hits like So Sick and Miss Independent, is stepping into the boxing world—not as a fighter, but as a manager. On December 21, his client Paul Bamba will face Rogelio “Porky” Medina for the WBA Gold Cruiserweight World Title, marking Ne-Yo’s debut in professional boxing management.

A lifelong boxing enthusiast, Ne-Yo credits his uncles for introducing him to the sport and cites his childhood martial arts training as part of his foundation. For over a decade, boxing has been a staple of his fitness routine. A chance introduction 18 months ago led him to Bamba, who initially trained Ne-Yo in Los Angeles. Impressed by Bamba’s relentless drive, Ne-Yo decided to support him professionally.

“You miss 100% of the shots you don’t shoot,” Ne-Yo told NBC News. “I saw places where I could help him, and where he could help me. It made sense.”

Bamba, a 35-year-old retired Marine and Iraq veteran, has overcome significant challenges. Once homeless, he turned to boxing to survive, earning $10 per sparring session. In 2024, he’s fought 13 times, winning each match by knockout. His grit and talent convinced Ne-Yo to invest in his career.

“Paul isn’t one of those people looking for handouts,” Ne-Yo said. “He’s earned everything. One thing I can absolutely help him with is exposure, as long as he keeps knocking people out.”

Ne-Yo believes his entertainment experience offers valuable insight into boxing’s promotional side, where a compelling story can amplify a fighter’s profile. He sees similarities between both industries, saying, “The guy with the best story gets the most attention.”

Bamba’s journey and talent create a compelling narrative, and Ne-Yo has already brought his signature flair to their partnership. He envisions Bamba walking into the ring to his hit Let’s Go with Calvin Harris, a track whose music video even features Ne-Yo boxing.

Bamba appreciates his manager’s belief, saying, “People like him don’t invest their time unless they see real potential. That trust pushes me to keep delivering.”

Looking beyond his title fight, Bamba has his sights set on a showdown with Jake Paul, a polarizing figure in the sport. After a canceled 2022 bout with Tommy Fury, Bamba is confident about a future clash.

“I think Jake Paul isn’t scared to fight me like Tommy Fury was,” Bamba said. “If he’s serious about boxing and world titles, I’ll be waiting after December. Honestly, I’d f— Jake Paul up.”

Ne-Yo fully supports the challenge, saying, “It’s time Jake fought someone who can actually fight.”