Boxing’s already precarious Olympic future has taken another hit, with the sport’s Asian governing body voting against leaving the suspended International Boxing Association (IBA) and joining the rival association, World Boxing. The decision throws the sport’s participation in the 2028 Los Angeles Games into further doubt.
The Asian Boxing Confederation (ASBC) held a secret ballot with 21 countries voting to remain with the IBA, while 14 voted in favor of joining World Boxing. This decision comes amidst a long-standing feud between the IBA and the IOC, with the latter managing the Olympic qualification process for the Tokyo and Paris Games. The IOC’s dissatisfaction with the IBA’s governance has led to its suspension, and the creation of World Boxing as an alternative governing body.
The ASBC’s decision to stick with the IBA presents a major setback for World Boxing, which is struggling to establish itself as a credible alternative. The IBA, in its statement, criticized World Boxing’s lack of financial resources, expertise, and support to organize major events. It also accused World Boxing of neglecting grassroots development, focusing solely on Olympic participation.
Despite the ASBC’s decision, the IBA faces a challenging path ahead. The IOC has shown little willingness to reinstate the IBA and has made it clear that World Boxing could be a viable alternative for boxing’s future in the Olympics.
The Boxing Federation of India (BFI) had previously expressed support for World Boxing, becoming a member in May. The BFI met with World Boxing leaders to explore ways to expand its membership base in Asia. However, the ASBC’s decision to stay with the IBA raises questions about the BFI’s commitment to World Boxing, given its close ties to the Asian governing body.
With the ASBC’s decision, boxing’s Olympic future remains shrouded in uncertainty. The IOC’s stance on the IBA and its willingness to accept World Boxing as a legitimate alternative will be crucial in determining the sport’s future in the Games. The upcoming months will be critical for boxing as it navigates this complex situation, with the fate of the sport in the 2028 Olympics hanging in the balance.
