In a defining moment for the future of international boxing, Chris Roberts OBE, Secretary General and CEO of the International Boxing Association (IBA), has laid out a bold and unapologetic blueprint for the sport’s transformation. Speaking candidly in an interview with Mr. Aky Karim and Boxing Now, reported that regarding IBA’s “Golden Era,” Roberts stated this represents a strategic renewal based on principles of sovereignty, inclusivity, and innovation, rather than a repetition of previous approaches.

Amid ongoing challenges, Roberts reaffirmed the IBA’s commitment to charting an independent course. “This is about transformation. We are building a future where boxing is governed by its own values, not external politics.”

A Vision for Global Growth

At the heart of the organisational plan is a multi-tiered strategy to expand boxing’s global footprint. This includes:

• Forging new commercial partnerships that align with the IBA’s values and long-term vision.
• Leveraging digital innovation to engage new audiences and modernize the sport’s global presence.
• Launching a reimagined competition calendar that reflects both amateur and professional diversity, and dynamism of the boxing world.
• Supporting the IBA’s Foundation for Better Boxing, which will be dedicated to the welfare of athletes, both past and present.

Championing Transparency and Athlete Welfare

Roberts also underscored the IBA’s renewed focus on transparency, athlete welfare, and geopolitical independence. “We are committed to creating a system where athletes are protected, heard, and empowered, regardless of where they come from,” he said.

Punching through Politics

While acknowledging the importance of the Olympic Games, Roberts made it clear that the IBA’s ambitions extend far beyond them. “Boxing’s future is not confined to a single event. We are building a sovereign, sustainable ecosystem that thrives on its own terms.”

IBA Golden Era Initiatives

As part of the IBA’s “Golden Era,” three key initiatives are being launched:

• IBA World Championships: The prestigious IBA Men’s Elite World Championships will feature an invitation of cross combination top amateur and professional athletes from around the world competing in high-stake bouts, the very first hybrid event of its kind.
• IBA Pro: A new professional boxing project moving on from ‘Champion’s Night’, designed to provide a platform for elite athletes to compete at the highest level while also having the ability in maintaining both amateur and professional status.
• IBA Bare Knuckle: An innovative and traditional form of boxing that aims to bring the raw and authentic essence of the sport to a global audience.

Regarding the IBA World Championships, the event promises to be a landmark moment for the sport, showcasing the best of amateur and professional boxing talent and innovation combined. Stars who have focused on a professional career will also be invited back to enhance a prestigious opportunity for wider competitive bouts. “We hope to attract big names for what is going to be an exciting competition, with many brilliant bouts between strong competitors. We are looking forward to enjoying it together with our boxing audience from around the world,” said Roberts.

As the organisation enters this new chapter, the IBA leadership signals a transformative era for the sport, one that embraces change, challenges convention, and redefines what it means to be a global boxing powerhouse.

The full interview between Mr. Chris Roberts OBE and Mr. Aky Karim can be found here.

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