IBA Strengthens Global Boxing Landscape Ahead of Dubai World Championships and Congress
November 5th, 2025 / Events
The International Boxing Association (IBA) has issued its latest update to National Federations, providing a comprehensive overview of strategic developments, governance progress, and event preparations as the organization heads into a defining year-end period highlighted by the IBA Men’s Elite World Championships and IBA Congress, both set to take place in Dubai this December.
Strategic Progress and Organizational Recalibration
The months of September and early October marked a phase of strategic recalibration for IBA, aimed at aligning priorities and resources toward sustainable growth. The organization undertook a holistic review of operations to strengthen internal governance, refine regulatory frameworks, and enhance stakeholder engagement.
This renewed focus comes as IBA continues to build on its core mission—advancing the sport globally while fostering transparency, accountability, and athlete-centered development.
Advancing Global Projects and Initiatives
Bare-Knuckle Boxing Engagement
IBA’s engagement with bare-knuckle boxing organizations underscores its intent to expand into emerging combat sport domains. The collaboration aims to harmonize safety standards, protect athletes, and explore future joint ventures, ensuring that innovation in the sport remains grounded in regulation and athlete welfare.
World Series of Boxing (WSB) Revival
The much-anticipated revival of the World Series of Boxing (WSB) remains a key strategic goal. While its relaunch has been deferred to 2026 to prioritize the upcoming World Championships, IBA envisions WSB as a bridge between amateur and professional boxing—designed to invigorate competition, inclusivity, and innovation across the sport.
Expanding the Communications Team
Recognizing the growing importance of storytelling and digital engagement, IBA has expanded its communications department, bringing in new boxing specialists to enhance outreach and global visibility. The expanded team is tasked with crafting narratives that reflect IBA’s values, achievements, and leadership in world boxing.
IBA–ISDE Governance Course Launch
A major milestone in IBA’s educational initiatives, the IBA–ISDE Sports Governance Course was launched on 30 October in partnership with the Institute of Sports Law and Education (ISDE). The program equips current and future sports leaders with essential governance knowledge, reinforcing IBA’s commitment to integrity, transparency, and excellence in administration.
Continental Developments
OCBC Championships – French Polynesia
The Oceania Boxing Confederation (OCBC) Championships held in French Polynesia exemplified IBA’s dedication to regional growth. The event drew significant participation across the region, boosting visibility and identifying new talent for the global stage.
AFBC & ASBC Events Rescheduled
The African (AFBC) and Asian (ASBC) Confederation Championships have been rescheduled to 2026, allowing IBA to ensure top-tier organizational standards and optimal event delivery.
European Boxing Academy & EUBC Championships
October saw key European leaders convene in Assisi for the European Boxing Academy meeting, charting the Academy’s development ahead of its official 2026 launch. Meanwhile, Armenia hosts the EUBC Youth & U23 Championships (1–11 November), showcasing emerging European boxing talent and reinforcing Armenia’s growing role as a hub for elite competition.
Governance and Financial Oversight
Prize Money Centralization
IBA has centralized the distribution of African prize money to ensure transparency and fairness. This reform addresses previous inefficiencies and sets a new benchmark for financial governance.
Financial Sustainability and External Audit
The organization has implemented cost-optimization measures to reinforce financial stability while maintaining investment in strategic priorities. An independent external audit—currently underway—will be presented at the Dubai Congress, reaffirming IBA’s commitment to fiscal accountability and good governance.
Constitution Review
A comprehensive legal review of the IBA Constitution is progressing under the guiding principle: “Strong foundations build lasting legacies.” The revised framework will modernize governance structures and enhance member engagement, marking a pivotal step toward long-term stability.
World Championships and Congress Preparations – Dubai 2025
The IBA Men’s Elite World Championships (2–13 December) in Dubai will serve as both a global sporting showcase and a celebration of IBA’s 75-year legacy. The Championships will be accompanied by the IBA Business Forum (12 December) and the IBA Congress (13 December)—gathering a large contingent of National Federations in what promises to be a landmark week for the sport.
Final negotiations on logistics, accommodation, and security are nearly complete, ensuring a world-class experience for athletes and attendees. A global marketing campaign is also underway to highlight the Championships’ cultural and sporting significance.
Event Highlights:
• 2–13 December: IBA Men’s Elite World Championships
• 11 December: IBA Pro Face-Off & Arrivals Dinner
• 12 December: IBA Business Forum / IBA Pro Event
• 13 December: IBA Congress / World Championships Finals / Gala Dinner
Istanbul Business Forum – Strengthening Strategic Alliances
The IBA Business Forum in Istanbul earlier this year marked a turning point in IBA’s global engagement strategy. With the participation of influential figures including IBA President Umar Kremlev and Donald Trump Jr., discussions centered on uniting business and sport to drive sustainable growth and innovation in boxing.
The forum resulted in new commercial partnerships, stronger global alliances, and reaffirmed IBA’s vision of uniting continents and generations through the power of sport.
Looking Ahead
IBA continues to monitor global boxing trends, including the resurgence of bare-knuckle boxing, while maintaining its focus on athlete safety and the sport’s integrity. Strategic transition planning is ongoing to ensure IBA remains adaptive, forward-thinking, and a true leader in global boxing governance.
A Message from IBA Leadership
As IBA enters this pivotal phase, Chris Roberts OBE, IBA Secretary General and CEO expressed gratitude to all National Federations for their ongoing support and collaboration.
“While challenges remain, our collective resilience and shared vision are shaping a bright future for boxing. Dubai will not only celebrate our athletes but also the progress we’ve made together as a global boxing family.”
IBA looks forward to welcoming all members and partners in Dubai this December for what promises to be a defining celebration of unity, excellence, and the enduring spirit of boxing.
