Boxing Australia's membership accepted to World Boxing
Published Sun 13 Aug 2023
Media Release
Boxing Australia (BA) has officially joined the newly formed World Boxing.
The move will provide a pathway for Australian boxers to future Olympic Games following BA’s decision last month to leave the International Boxing Association (IBA).
The IBA is no longer recognised by the International Olympic Committee (IOC).
Boxing Australia President Phil Goodes says he’s excited for the sport in Australia, aligning with like-minded boxing federations internationally to join World Boxing.
“It’s an historic time for Australian boxing, as we pursue the goal of ensuring that our sport remains part of the Olympic program. Our members and the sport are at the forefront of this decision as we look past Paris to LA2028 and a home Games in Brisbane 2032.
“The IOC is conducting the qualification process for Paris 2024 and will run the boxing program at the Games next year. By joining World Boxing, we believe the sport can ultimately resume a more orderly and sustainable future as a core Olympic sport.
“We thank the Australian Olympic Committee, President Ian Chesterman and CEO Matt Carroll for their support as we navigate our sport through this current times,” he said.
As a consequence of quitting the IBA and joining World Boxing, BA members can’t participate at any IBA sanctioned events, athletes, coaches, referees, judges, volunteer or any other official capacity.
Boxing Australia is investigating alternative events to attend.
“We will not be sending a team to the 2023 IBA Junior World Championship and are working through an alternate championship to attend, Mr Goodes said.
“This in no way impacts our athletes going to the Olympics in Paris and preparation will continue to ensure we have the best preparations for them.
“As a traditional sport and have been part of the Olympics from the beginning, Boxing Australia will continue to ensure that we remain part of the Olympics program going forward for our future athletes,” he concluded.