The International Boxing Association (IBA) has issued a formal statement addressing recent developments involving the African Boxing Confederation (AFBC), following the public comments and actions of Mr. Berhanu, a member of the IBA Board of Directors.

On 3 April 2025, the IBA Board unanimously invoked Article 14.5 of its Constitution to establish a Normalisation Committee for the AFBC. This decision, reaffirmed on 5 May 2025, was prompted by serious governance and operational irregularities that led to the effective fragmentation of the AFBC into two separate factions.

‘The dysfunction within AFBC could no longer be ignored. We owe it to our National Federations, athletes and coaches across all regions to uphold integrity and restore stability,’ stated IBA Secretary & CEO, Mr Chris Roberts OBE.

The establishment of the Normalisation Committee was designed to address systemic issues within AFBC and support its reform, not to target any individual. However, recent public statements by Mr. Berhanu attacking the IBA, its President Umar Kremlev, and the Normalisation Committee have been deemed unjustified and detrimental to the sport’s progress in Africa.

‘IBA remains committed to unity and transparency. Under President Kremlev’s leadership, we’ve seen concrete advancements in African boxing. Undermining these efforts is both outrageous and disrespectful, it helps no one,’ Mr Roberts continued.

The Board has called on Mr. Berhanu to cease public disparagement and uphold his responsibilities under Article 14.5 of the IBA Constitution. The organization encourages all parties to engage constructively in the normalization process for the good of boxing across the continent.

This decisive action reaffirms IBA’s commitment to safeguarding integrity, transparency, and unity in boxing across Africa and worldwide.

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Media contacts:

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

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