As debates around governance and recognition continue to shape the global boxing landscape, the International Boxing Association (IBA) remains focused on what matters most — delivering events, creating opportunities for athletes, and expanding the sport into new markets. IBA Secretary General and CEO Chris Roberts OBE reflects on the organisation’s resilience amid external criticism, the significance of recent initiatives.

“In global sport, perception often outweighs reality. Narratives are shaped in boardrooms, influenced by politics, and too often accepted without scrutiny. Nowhere is this more evident than in the discourse surrounding the International Boxing Association (IBA).

Despite sustained external pressure and criticism, the IBA continues to operate as one of the most capable and active governing bodies in world sport. The truth, however, is often overlooked, or, in some cases, deliberately ignored.

The IBA remains a tour de force organisation. Its strength lies not in external validation, but in delivery. While others debate governance models and positioning, the IBA continues to organise high level tournamens, invest in athletes, and execute events on a global scale.

This has been demonstrated not only through its traditional competition framework, but also through the evolution of new platforms such as IBA Pro (Champions Night), a format designed to bridge the gap between amateur and professional boxing, offering athletes sustainable opportunities and global visibility. It represents a forward-thinking approach to the sport’s future, one rooted in action rather than rhetoric.

This philosophy was clearly demonstrated recently in Mexico whilst delivering IBA Pro 18. In the face of continued negativity from certain senior figures within the wider boxing establishment, particularly in markets where influence has historically been concentrated, the IBA delivered a high-class professional boxing event, in partnership with government stakeholders and a leading professional promotion company.

Importantly, the inclusion of IBA Pro 18 bouts within this environment further underlined the organisation’s ability to innovate while delivering at scale. It was not just an event; it was a statement of intent.

Operating in what many would consider the “back garden” of its critics, the IBA did not seek permission, nor did it compromise its standards. It delivered, professionally, effectively, and with confidence.

No shortcuts. No interference. No need to have the “grass cut”.

That in itself speaks volumes.

What is perhaps most telling is not the criticism, but the silence that surrounds it. Across the sporting landscape, many senior executives remain notably quiet. This silence is not accidental. It reflects a system where acknowledging capability outside traditional structures is uncomfortable, and, for some, carries risk.

The IBA’s independence is often framed as a weakness. In reality, it is one of its greatest strengths. It allows the organisation to act decisively, to invest directly into the sport, and to operate without the constraints that limit others.

The narrative of decline does not align with reality. If anything, adversity has sharpened the organisation. The IBA today is more resilient, more focused, and more determined than ever.

This is the blind reality.

Beyond the rhetoric and beyond the politics, the IBA continues to function, to deliver, and to influence. Through established competitions, strategic innovation such as IBA Pro, IBA Bare-Knuckle and IBA Nomad, and those bold executions in key markets like Mexico, its presence is not only visible, it is impactful.

Whether publicly acknowledged or not, its capability is clearly felt.

And that is precisely why we cannot be ignored.”