The Boxing Federation of India (BFI) severed ties with the suspended International Boxing Association (IBA) and joined the newly-formed World Boxing organization on May 31. This decision aims to address the threat to boxing’s future in the Olympics. The move follows the International Olympic Committee’s (IOC) warning that boxing might be excluded from the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics if national federations continue to support the IBA.
We are pleased to announce that the Boxing Federation of India (BFI) is joining World Boxing.
---Advertisement---The BFI aims to play a leading role in establishing an Asian Confederation and drive the recruitment of other National Federations in the region.
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---Advertisement---— WORLD BOXING (@RealWorldBoxing) May 31, 2024
Boxing Federation of India Join World Boxing
BFI President Ajay Singh expressed his eagerness to collaborate with the World Boxing Executive Board to “shape the future development of the sport and deliver a brighter future for boxers globally.” World Boxing, led by Boris van der Vorst, a former IBA presidential candidate, was established in April 2023 to ensure boxing remains integral to the Olympic movement.
The BFI’s General Assembly approved the membership application, which will be ratified by World Boxing’s Executive Board. On May 7, World Boxing held its first formal meeting with the IOC, marking the beginning of their collaboration to keep boxing in the Olympic Games.
The IOC had de-recognized the IBA in 2019 due to ongoing issues with finances, sports integrity, and governance. The committee will also be overseeing boxing at the 2024 Paris Olympics, marking the second consecutive Olympics, after Tokyo, where the IBA will have no involvement in the bouts.
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