The International Boxing Association (IBA) has unveiled ambitious plans to reshape the boxing landscape. At a press conference held at the Rixos Tersane Hotel in Istanbul, Turkey, IBA leader Uman Kremlev laid out the organization's immediate objectives.
IBA, which previously oversaw Olympic boxing before being replaced by World Boxing, is now focusing on organizing elite amateur boxing championships across youth, junior, and schoolboy categories. The organization aims to create spectacular galas featuring both amateur boxers and professionals with limited pro fights.
Kremlev announced plans for world championships to be held in the United Arab Emirates at the end of the year, bringing together 30 top-level fighters per weight category. IBA also intends to venture into bare-knuckle boxing with new rules and improved fighter protection.
The organization's expansion plans don't stop at the ring. IBA is set to launch high-end sports complexes worldwide under the banner of IBA Boxing Gyms. They're also developing an IBA Boxing Game and a sportswear line.
Perhaps the most intriguing initiative is IBA Pro, which aims to collaborate with major boxing organizations like WBC, WBA, IBF, and WBO. This move could potentially position IBA as a professional boxing organization.
"We will continue to organize world and regional championships with large financial prizes," Kremlev stated. "This will likely double the number of competitions for the best amateur boxers."
The press conference saw attendance from boxing royalty, including four-weight world champion Terence Crawford, former world heavyweight champion Tyson Fury, and legendary boxer Roy Jones. WBA champion Rolando Romero, Conor Benn, Ben Whitaker, Derek Chisora, and Shannon Briggs were also present.
Tyson Fury, who was seen training in Istanbul and appears to be in good shape, hinted at a possible return to the ring. When asked about fighting Anthony Joshua for an IBA title, Fury responded:
"Show me the money. I'm not retiring, I'm open to good offers. We might see something after the summer."
Terence Crawford also made waves by confirming his upcoming fight against Saul "Canelo" Alvarez on September 13 for four super middleweight crowns. Crawford simply stated:
"We will see everything in the ring."
With its significant economic backing and ambitious plans, IBA is positioning itself as a major player in both amateur and professional boxing. The organization's moves will likely shake up the boxing world in the coming months.
