The International Boxing Association (IBA) Congress 2025 concluded in Dubai alongside the Men’s World Boxing Championships, marking a defining moment for the global governance, commercial evolution, and athlete-first development of the sport.

Delegates from across the world gathered to review and approve key strategic initiatives, constitutional developments, and long-term reforms aimed at strengthening National Federations, expanding competitive opportunities, and ensuring sustainable financial support for boxers and coaches worldwide.

Strengthening National Federations and Governance Reform

A central focus of the Congress was the continued strengthening of National Federations, with discussions and updates on constitutional alignment, governance structures, and compliance frameworks designed to ensure transparency, independence, and long-term stability across all member nations.

The Congress reaffirmed IBA’s commitment to working collaboratively with National Federations to modernise constitutions, improve administrative capacity, and create equal opportunities for participation and development. These reforms are intended to empower federations to operate more effectively while safeguarding the interests of athletes and coaches.

Record Participation and Expanded Prize Money Structure

Addressing the Congress, IBA President Umar Kremlev highlighted the unprecedented scale of global engagement, with more than 118 countries participating in the World Championships.

“Our Congress is a place where we unite, spend time together, and discuss the development of boxing in the interests of coaches, athletes, and national federations. I am especially glad that the World Championships are being held here as part of our Congress,” Kremlev said.

The President underlined the importance of IBA’s decision to award prize money up to fifth place, ensuring broader distribution of financial support and increased participation from developing boxing nations.

“It is important that 50 percent of the prize money goes directly to the athlete, 25 percent to the coach, and 25 percent to the national federation. The IBA will directly oversee this process to ensure transparency and impact.”

Future Expansion: Increased Prize Funds and Weight Categories

Looking ahead, Kremlev confirmed that the total prize fund will increase from USD 8 million to USD 10 million at the next World Championships, with fourth and fifth-place finishers receiving USD 30,000 instead of USD 10,000.

He also proposed an expansion of weight categories to 14 divisions, including the introduction of a new super-heavyweight category, aimed at increasing participation and competitive balance.

“Our main goal is to see more countries competing, winning prizes, and developing boxing, making it a flagship sport in every nation.”

Investment in Infrastructure and Continental Competition

The Congress also outlined major development initiatives, including:

• Expansion of the IBA Assistance Program, providing gloves, rings, and equipment to National Federations
• Launch of the IBA Gym Program, investing directly in training infrastructure across multiple countries
• Introduction of four continental tournaments in 2026, each with a USD 1 million prize fund

More than 20 countries received direct IBA financial support to enable participation in the World Championships, reinforcing the organisation’s athlete-access-first approach.

Launch of the IBA Team World Cup

In a major announcement, Kremlev confirmed the launch of the IBA Team World Cup, set to debut next year with a USD 10 million prize fund.

“Each country will form a national team and compete as a team, with qualification events held in different countries. The champion team will receive five million dollars.”

Detailed regulations and presentations will be shared with National Federations by the end of January.

Chris Roberts OBE, CEO of IBA, said: “What stands out from this Congress is the collective commitment to doing what is right for boxing. Supporting National Federations through constitutional reform and governance best practice is central to restoring trust and ensuring athletes are protected and rewarded fairly. These changes, combined with unprecedented financial investment, show that IBA is serious about delivering a better future for boxers at every level.”

Commercial Growth and Global Broadcast Expansion

The Congress also highlighted IBA’s growing global footprint, with DAZN acquiring broadcast rights for the semi-finals and finals of the World Championships. The IBA Challenger company was recognised for its role in strengthening marketing, sponsorship, and commercial partnerships.

Manny Pacquiao Praises Long-Term Vision

IBA Vice President Manny Pacquiao praised the organisation’s long-term vision and commitment to supporting young and underprivileged athletes.

“I truly believe in the IBA’s vision, which is not short-term but long-term — focused on helping young and less fortunate athletes around the world.”

Reflecting on his own journey, Pacquiao added:

“What I have achieved in life is the result of dreaming big and having faith in God. The IBA’s vision focuses on helping young athletes and building relationships that shape their futures.”

United Vision for the Future of Boxing

Kremlev concluded by thanking National Federations, continental bodies, and the host nation for their collaboration and support.

“We are truly the only international association where athletes stand on the podium based on merit, not politics. Together, we have defended the independence of the IBA, and together we will continue to make boxing the flagship sport in every country.”

With governance reform, expanded financial investment, and a renewed focus on National Federations, the IBA Congress 2025 set a clear and ambitious roadmap for the future of global boxing.