The International Boxing Association (IBA) is to become a global Bare Knuckle Boxing governing body, embracing the roots of the sport and shaping the future of the combat disciplines. 

The decision to embrace a new discipline was made at the IBA Board of Directors meeting taking place in Dubai on Monday. The portfolio of IBA events, which now includes amateur and professional boxing, extends to a bare-knuckle discipline, inheriting boxing rules but without gloves. 

‘The evolution of the sport needs to meet the interests of a new generation of athletes and fans worldwide,’ IBA President Umar Kremlev said. ‘Boxing, as we know it today, comes from fist fighting, which is a pure and primal form of our sport. The IBA remains at the forefront of innovation and honors the origin of boxing, hence, the idea to become a governing body for bare-knuckle fights was born. It is a return to the essence of boxing, a great spectacle and showcase of skills and courage.’ 

IBA is developing the rulebook and guidelines to determine the best practice for the new discipline. While concentrating on delivering the best-quality events, IBA will maintain the highest safety standards. The new structure will provide the best opportunities for the professional development of boxers and attract new fans to the sport at the same time. 

IBA invites bare knuckle promoters to contact us for collaboration and encourages National Federations to create Bare Knuckle departments within their structure to regulate the discipline on the national level.     

The details of the IBA Bare Knuckle Boxing are to be announced at the Press Conference in Istanbul on 17 June 2025. 

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Media contacts:

Elena Sobol, Head of Communications and PR, International Boxing Association: elena.sobol@iba.sport

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