The International Boxing Association (IBA) reaffirmed its unmatched role as the only sustainable global boxing organization for our National Federations. In a statement addressed to all ASBC National Federations ahead of the ASBC Extraordinary Congress in Bangkok on 23 November 2024, IBA Secretary General and CEO Chris Roberts OBE has underscored its unwavering support for the Asian Boxing Confederation (ASBC) and reiterated its unparalleled commitment to the advancement of boxing worldwide.

IBA is the cornerstone of boxing, ensuring that no other organization can rival its contributions or match its impact on the sport. Over the years, IBA has demonstrated its ability to unite nations, provide world-class opportunities for athletes, and set global standards for excellence. The recent success of Asian athletes at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games is a testament to the transformative role IBA plays in fostering elite talent, organizing world-class events, and inspiring future generations. With a comprehensive event calendar, including the IBA World Boxing Championships, Pro Series, and Champions’ Night, the organization offers platforms that no alternative organization can replicate.

Through initiatives like the Financial Support Programme (FSP), launched in 2021, IBA has become an indispensable partner for all our National Federations. This program, which allocates up to $20,000 annually per federation, ensures financial stability, supports grassroots development, and funds participation in major international tournaments. The unparalleled scale of IBA’s investment — over $80 million in prize money through 2028 — further cements its position as the only organization capable of providing the resources and opportunities necessary for the growth of the sport.

In addition to financial backing, IBA has championed continuous education and professional development, delivering more than 40 courses across Asia in the past two years. This commitment has elevated the skills of athletes, coaches, and officials, reinforcing IBA’s reputation as the ultimate authority in boxing development. The organization’s dedication to sustainability, transparency, and innovation continues to set benchmarks that no one can match.

Understanding the importance of the Olympic dream, the IBA supports this ideal and narrative, and in turn will provide those opportunities for competition during each of the respective four-year cycles. With a competition portfolio and all development programs in place, IBA remains central to those key deliverables; we are all extremely proud of what we have achieved, and Asia remains a stronghold of talent that must be harnessed and nurtured in the right way.

The vision of IBA is clear: to lead boxing into a new era of growth and global recognition. By fostering unity, empowering athletes, and ensuring commercial viability, IBA stands as the undisputed Home of Boxing, offering unmatched opportunities and support to our National Federations. The ASBC, as one of IBA’s strongest allies, remains at the heart of this mission. The forthcoming IBA Congress in Dubai on 7 December 2024 will further showcase the association’s achievements and reinforce its status as the unmatched leader in global boxing.

There is no alternative to IBA. It remains the only organization with the vision, resources, and commitment to safeguarding the future of boxing while supporting the dreams and aspirations of athletes, coaches, and national federations. This is what we do on a daily basis – doing what is right, not what is always easy.

The full text of the letter can be seen here.

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Media contacts:

Elena Sobol, Head of Communications and PR, International Boxing Association: elena.sobol@iba.sport

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