The International Boxing Association (IBA), in partnership with the World Boxing Association (WBA), has successfully conducted its first joint professional training course for IBA Referees and Judges, marking another important step in the organisation’s commitment to the development of world-class boxing officials.

The seminar brought together selected IBA 3-Star referees, judges and coaches as part of the association’s Continuous Professional Development (CPD) pathway. Delivered in both English and Spanish, the course focused on strengthening the theoretical and practical understanding required for officiating in professional boxing.

The initiative forms part of the IBA’s wider strategy to expand professional boxing opportunities while ensuring its officials are fully equipped with the knowledge, skills, and expertise required at the highest level of the sport.

IBA Secretary General & CEO, Chris Roberts OBE, welcomed the successful completion of the programme:

“Education and professional development remain central to the IBA’s long-term vision. This first joint course with the WBA represents an important milestone in preparing our referees and judges for the evolving demands of professional boxing.The strong engagement from participants and the quality of the discussions throughout the seminar clearly demonstrated the appetite for continued learning and growth within our officiating community.

Furthermore, the attendance of several coaches proved invaluable; their participation ensures a deeper mutual understanding of how the officiating process works, fostering better alignment between those inside the ring and those scoring from the outside.”

The seminar was divided into two dedicated sections addressing the specific responsibilities of judges and referees. The first segment focused on judging criteria, round evaluation, and the key qualities required to ensure fair and accurate scoring in professional contests. The second segment concentrated on refereeing, including bout management, in-ring decision-making, and maintaining fighter safety and control during professional bouts.

Mr Tamim Sultani, IBA 3-Star World Class Referee & Judge:

“Thank you for the opportunity to be part of this important programme. It was a valuable experience for everyone involved, and the collaboration between the IBA and WBA showed a strong commitment to the development of referees and judges in professional boxing.

The discussions, learning environment, and exchange of experience were excellent, and I believe programmes like this play an important role in raising standards within the boxing community for the future.”

To reinforce the educational component of the course, participants completed a practical assessment involving the analysis and evaluation of video footage from professional fights. This exercise allowed officials to apply the knowledge gained during the seminar in real fight scenarios while receiving professional feedback on their performance.

Luis Pabón, Director of the International Officials Committee at WBA shared his opinion: “Last Sunday, we held a training seminar for boxing referees and judges with the aim of continuing to strengthen the quality and safety of our sport. It was an excellent opportunity to update knowledge and unify standards within the global boxing community. We extend our gratitude to all IBA officials, as well as to the other participants, for their commitment and attendance. We also thank the WBA—and our President, Gilberto Jesús Mendoza—for their support and trust, as well as my dedicated team.”

Following the success of the inaugural course, IBA and WBA are expected to continue their collaboration through future educational initiatives aimed at further strengthening the global boxing officiating community.