Published on March 25, 2026
The International Olympic Committee (IOC) Board has officially approved the inclusion of boxing in the upcoming 2028 Los Angeles Olympic Games. This pivotal decision comes on the heels of the IOC’s recent granting of provisional recognition to World Boxing, a new governing body for the sport, which effectively sidelines the controversial International Boxing Association (IBA).
The move to include boxing in the Los Angeles Games signals a significant shift in the governance of the sport, as the IOC aims to restore integrity and enhance the reputation of boxing on the Olympic stage. The provisional recognition of World Boxing allows it to assume responsibility for overseeing the sport’s operations, including athlete qualifications and event organization for the Olympics.
This decision follows years of turbulence surrounding the IBA, which has faced scrutiny over governance issues, financial mismanagement, and allegations of corruption. With the IOC’s proactive stance, boxing will abide designed to ensure fair competition and athlete safety, reaffirming the IOC’s commitment to upholding the Olympic values.
World Boxing, led appointed leaders, is expected to implement reforms and establish a transparent framework that will govern the sport. This includes initiatives aimed at fostering inclusivity, enhancing athlete development, and revitalizing the competitive landscape of boxing leading up to the 2028 Games.
The inclusion of boxing not only enriches the Olympic program but also resonates within the broader boxing community, from amateur fighters to professional associations. Athletes and coaches have expressed optimism about the change in governance, seeing it as a fresh start for the sport they are passionate about.
As preparations for the Los Angeles Games continue, World Boxing is tasked with building credibility and ensuring that the legacy of boxing within the Olympics is both respected and celebrated. The countdown to 2028 has officially begun, and the world of boxing is poised for a transformative chapter.