In a significant development for the boxing community, the International Olympic Committee (IOC) has confirmed that boxing will be part of the sports program at the Los Angeles 2028 (LA28) Olympic Games. This decision comes after a period of uncertainty regarding the sport’s inclusion.
Historical Significance of Boxing in the Olympics
Boxing has a storied history in the Olympic Games, debuting in 1904 in St. Louis. Except for the 1912 Stockholm Games, where it was excluded due to Swedish law, boxing has been a staple in the Olympics.
The sport has produced legends like Hungary’s László Papp and Cuba’s Teófilo Stevenson, each securing three gold medals.
Recent Concerns and Resolutions
In recent years, boxing faced challenges concerning its governance. The International Boxing Association (IBA) was suspended by the IOC in 2019 due to issues related to governance, financial mismanagement, and refereeing scandals.
Consequently, boxing was not included in the initial sports program for LA28 approved in February 2022.
However, the IOC’s Executive Board has recommended boxing’s inclusion in the LA28 program, following the provisional recognition of a new international federation, World Boxing, on February 26, 2025.
Official Statements
IOC President Thomas Bach expressed optimism about boxing’s future in the Olympics, stating, “We appreciate the efforts made to address the concerns and are pleased to see boxing’s return to the Olympic program.”
Similarly, USA Boxing’s Executive Director Mike McAtee remarked, “This is a positive step forward for our athletes and the sport as a whole.”
Impact on Amateur Boxing and Future Olympians
The reinstatement of boxing in the LA28 Olympics holds significant implications for amateur boxers worldwide. It ensures that athletes have the opportunity to compete on the world’s biggest stage, motivating emerging talents and sustaining interest in the sport at the grassroots level.
Moreover, it allows national boxing programs to continue their development pathways, aiming for Olympic success.
The IOC’s decision to include boxing in the LA28 Olympics not only preserves a historic Olympic sport but also reinforces the commitment to uphold integrity and excellence in athletic competition.
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