The Fight to Keep Boxing in the Olympics: Can World Boxing Save the Sport’s Legacy?

Boxing, a sport deeply embedded in Olympic history since 1904, is confronting an existential crisis regarding its inclusion in future Games. The International Olympic Committee (IOC) has raised significant concerns over the governance and integrity of the International Boxing Association (IBA), leading to the sport's exclusion from the preliminary program of the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. This decision has sent shockwaves through the boxing community, as the Olympics have long been a pinnacle for amateur boxers worldwide.

Governance Issues and IOC's Stance

The IOC's apprehensions about the IBA are not new. In 2019, the IOC suspended the IBA (then known as AIBA) due to issues related to governance, financial mismanagement, and the integrity of officiating. Despite this suspension, the IBA failed to implement the necessary reforms, leading the IOC to derecognize the association in June 2023. This derecognition has left boxing without a recognized international federation, jeopardizing its Olympic future.

In response, the IOC has set a deadline of early 2025 for the establishment of a new international governing body that meets its standards. Failure to do so could result in boxing's exclusion from the 2028 Games. IOC President Thomas Bach emphasized the urgency, stating that without a credible partner, the sport's Olympic status remains in peril.

Emergence of World Boxing

Amid this uncertainty, a new organization named World Boxing was established in April 2023. Comprised of officials from various national federations, World Boxing aims to address the deficiencies that plagued the IBA and to align with the IOC's requirements. The organization has been proactive, engaging in formal discussions with the IOC to chart a pathway for boxing's reinstatement in the Olympic program.

World Boxing has also garnered support from prominent figures in the boxing world. Notably, former world champion Gennady Golovkin has taken a leading role by chairing an Olympic commission within the organization. Golovkin's involvement underscores the collective effort to preserve boxing's Olympic legacy.

Call to Action for National Federations

The success of World Boxing's mission heavily depends on the support of national boxing federations. Boris van der Vorst, President of World Boxing, has urged these federations to join the organization to ensure the sport's continuity in the Olympic arena. He highlighted the pressing nature of the situation, stating that immediate action is required to keep the Olympic dreams of boxers alive.

Athletes' Perspectives and the Path Forward

The uncertainty surrounding boxing's Olympic status has profound implications for athletes. For instance, Irish boxer Kellie Harrington, who secured gold at the 2024 Paris Olympics, expressed significant concerns about the sport's future. She emphasized the potential negative impact on aspiring athletes and the necessity for reforms to maintain boxing's place in the Olympics.

As the early 2025 deadline approaches, the boxing community faces a critical juncture. The formation of World Boxing and its proactive measures offer a glimmer of hope. However, the collective effort of all stakeholders, including national federations, athletes, and officials, is imperative to navigate the sport through this tumultuous period and secure its future in the Olympic movement.