The International Boxing Association (IBA) is expanding its educational programmes in the field of bare-knuckle boxing by launching its first professional training course for the most experienced group of IBA officials. This comprehensive online course, provided to IBA personnel, will be delivered in close collaboration with the the recently appointed IBA Bare-Knuckle Director, Jim Freeman.

The new programme will focus on the technical aspects of the bare-knuckle discipline, mandatory safety measures and medical standards, as well as the regulatory features of bare-knuckle events. Special emphasis will be placed on the scoring system and criteria, along with other detailed competition aspects that differ from boxing.  

Jim Freeman, IBA Bare-Knuckle Director, commented: “I am glad to be part of this upcoming training programme, which is an essential step in successfully integrating bare-knuckle boxing within the IBA. Education is key to our vision and remains one of our top priorities in this discipline, in order to guarantee athlete safety and ensure a sustainable future for bare-knuckle boxing in the international sports arena”.

Registration is open to IBA 3-Star Referee and Judges, IBA International Technical Officials, including Ringside Doctors, R&J Evaluators/Observers, and IBA-certified Technical Delegates. Interested officials may register via the Registration Form, which will remain open until 1 April 2026.

Please note that completing the registration form does not automatically guarantee a place on the course. Final selection will be made by the IBA Office based on profile, expertise, and experience of the applicants. Selected participants will be contacted shortly after the registration process is completed. For any additional questions, please contact the IBA Development Department at development@iba.sport.