The 2022 International Boxing Association (IBA) Women’s World Boxing Championships concluded with thrilling bouts in 12 women’s weight categories. In front of an electric crowd at a packed Basaksehir Arena in Istanbul, 73 IBA member federations were represented by their fighters. For the first time ever, the champions of the competition received prize money, with the gold medallists winning $100 000 USD each.    

“Over the last two weeks, we have seen history made, new legends born, and an atmosphere unlike any other here in Istanbul,” said IBA President Umar Kremlev. “I am proud of all the competitors for their relentless efforts to give the very best of themselves. They have all represented their countries with passion and pride and should be proud of their accomplishments. The 2022 IBA Women’s World Boxing Championships have showcased the highest level of boxing I have seen so far for women and highlighted the number of world-class athletes competing at the top of their game. Several fighters have made their dreams become a reality, while others will come back more motivated than ever. I look forward to seeing what happens in the future.”   

The Turkish team was crowned the best team of the Championships after winning five gold and two bronze medals. The International Technical Officials named the Turkish boxer and defending World champion Busenaz Surmeneli the best boxer of the Championships after her winning performance in the 66kg weight class, while Jennifer Huggins from Canada was evaluated as the best R&J of the tournament.    

IBA Secretary General István Kovács said: “It was special to witness the skill and courage on display from the boxers at these championships. This event in Istanbul will live long in the memory of us all. I would like to thank all the referees and judges for their fantastic work in making sure the fights were officiated to the highest standard possible, ensuring the fighters could focus all their energy on competing. Congratulations to all the champions of the 12 weight categories. Several have etched their names in history, becoming the first champions in their weight class at this event, while all of them have written an important chapter in their careers.”  

The tournament also did not feature evidence of attempts to manipulate competition results, a very encouraging sign given IBA’s reform of refereeing and judging systems, processes and culture. “It was noticeable that we seem to have avoided attempts to manipulate bouts here in Istanbul,” continued President Kremlev. “To achieve this level of improvement in our sport integrity has not been easy. It is something we are determined to repeat, as we embrace a culture of fair fights.”  

Following the final medal ceremony, IBA held a gala dinner for all guests where the winners of nominations for the ‘Outstanding Women’s Boxing Awards’ were honoured. As part of these awards, the IBA President gifted a pair of white boxing gloves to all the medallists from the competition, to mark their success at the IBA Women’s World Boxing Championships.   

Nominations and winners:  

Pioneer Woman in Boxing – Shelly Selowati H. Soejono   

Outstanding Woman Boxer – Katie Taylor  

Outstanding Women Technical Official – Susanne Karrlander  

Outstanding Woman R&J – Sadie Duffy  

Outstanding Woman Coach – Amanda Coulson  

Outstanding Woman Doctor – Leyla Nasirova  

Outstanding Woman Administrator – Anna Moore  

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