On Wednesday, the International Olympic Committee stated it needs to find a suitable new international boxing body by early next year. The story behind this goes something like this.
The IOC stripped the International Boxing Association of the right to run their boxing tournaments at the last two games. This was due to the IBA’s questionable integrity and operations regarding the refereed and judged matches.
Now, the committee’s scrambling to find a new governing body to oversee the operations. But time is running out for the sport. Will it be enough to save boxing at the Olympics?
The Story Behind the Olympics and the IBA
The story between the two sides is extremely complicated. Aside from the accusations of corruption, there are also allegations of “violent and threatening language” by IBA Russian president, Umar Kremlev. Used towards IOC members, that has led to the IOC excluding the IBA from the Olympic fun.
Now, the IBA has considered filing an appeal to the Swiss supreme court. It’s become a complicated mess that’s jeopardizing the sport’s presence at the Olympics.
However, this has opened the door for World Boxing to pursue recognition. The legendary organization has until 2025 to file its claim for the sport’s sake. Otherwise, there will be no boxing at the 2028 games in Los Angeles.
How This Olympic Debacle Affects the Sport Overall
The one glaring issue standing out with this news is the loss of exposure. Losing the Olympics will hurt boxing, taking away millions of eyeballs. The global games are about the best athletes from each country competing, with every country showcasing their pride.
It also hurts the competition aspect of the sport, taking away another place for fighting. Spectators won’t see fighters like Anthony Joshua, Canelo Alvarez, or Tyson Fury compete on the world stage. With that goes a legendary legacy in the global games.
In any case, time’s running out for the IOC to find a replacement organization to oversee its boxing operations. The consequences for missing the deadline are dire, with the sport being devastated by its Olympic absence. That’s something fans, fighters, and executives don’t want to see.
Welcome to Dice City Sports — where we provide premium, exclusive, up-to-date news and analysis surrounding the Las Vegas sports scene. Follow along on social media, and check back for new articles daily!
Jacob Walters is a boxing/MMA writer for Dice City Sports. You can follow him on X via @IceColdWJacob
