Boxing Secures Spot in 2028 LA Olympics After IOC Approval
World Boxing will be responsible for organizing the qualification pathway and the boxing tournament at the 2028 Games
Boxing has officially been included in the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics after a unanimous vote by the International Olympic Committee (IOC) on March 20, 2025.
This decision marks a significant milestone for the sport, which had faced uncertainty due to governance and financial issues with its former governing body, the International Boxing Association (IBA). The IBA was stripped of its recognition in June 2023 for failing to implement necessary reforms.
The IOC’s decision follows the provisional recognition granted to World Boxing, a new governing body formed in 2023, which has gained support from over 80 national federations.
World Boxing will be responsible for organizing the qualification pathway and the boxing tournament at the 2028 Games.
Former Olympic champions, including Ukraine’s Wladimir Klitschko, have welcomed the IOC’s decision, expressing relief and enthusiasm for the sport’s continued presence in the Olympics.
The inclusion of boxing in the 2028 Olympics ensures that athletes will have a clear and transparent pathway to participate in the Games.
IOC President Thomas Bach expressed gratitude for the approval, stating that the decision ensures a great boxing tournament in Los Angeles.
World Boxing President Boris van der Vorst also praised the outcome, attributing it to a collective effort by national federations, boxers, coaches, and officials.
