The 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles is casting a shadow of uncertainty over the sport of boxing, according to a recent announcement by the International Olympic Committee (IOC).
Boxing has been a part of the Olympics since 1920 and is set to feature in the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris, France. However, the long history of boxing in the Olympics may come to an end due to what IOC president Thomas Bach calls a "problem with the governing body".
In June, the International Boxing Association (IBA), responsible for overseeing amateur boxing at the Olympics, lost recognition from the IOC's executive board. This decision was driven by concerns related to officiating standards, financial management, and governance within the IBA. The IBA is currently engaged in an ongoing appeal process to address these issues.
During an IOC session held in Mumbai on Monday, a pivotal vote was cast to determine whether boxing would be included in the sports program for the 2028 Los Angeles Games. However, the absence of any recognized governing body other than the IBA has led to a temporary suspension of the sport's participation in the 2028 Games.
The official IOC statement reads, "Any decision regarding the inclusion of boxing on the LA28 sports program is put on hold."
Casey Wasserman, Chairman of LA 2028, addressed the media in Mumbai, expressing his strong desire to see boxing continue its storied history within the Olympics. He underscored the sport's rich legacy in both the Olympic Games and the United States, which has produced numerous boxing legends. However, Wasserman acknowledged that the final verdict rests with the IOC's membership, given the complexities associated with the governing body. While he remains hopeful, he concedes that the decision remains pending.
"Boxing has a great history in the Olympics, has a great history in America as a lineage of boxing champions. So we'd love to see boxing on the program. But obviously, it's a decision that's going to be taken by the IOC's membership, given the complexities that exist with the federation. We're hopeful, but all we can do is wait for the answer."
Beatrice Adamu is a writer for AceTVBoxing.com. She can be reached on Twitter @oh_stillbella or via email: adamubeatrice13@gmail.com.
Be the First to Comment