IBA fully supports and endorses sex testing initiatives and invites all boxing bodies to embrace the same
PhilBoxing.com
Mon, 02 Jun 2025
Lausanne, Switzerland – The International Boxing Association (IBA) has been advocating for equality for many years and is pleased to see that the only right approach regarding the subject heading has been adopted by other boxing bodies. Following the gender row issue at Paris 2024 and huge resonance and impact it had on the sport of boxing, the united response from all boxing bodies was absolutely necessary; we welcome the most recent statements to embrace the eligibility processes IBA has already established and urge all boxing bodies to join the intention to make our sport fair.
'We wholeheartedly welcome those proactive steps that align with IBA’s longstanding framework, especially regarding the rigorous sex testing protocols that have been a cornerstone of our practices for the past 3 years,’ said IBA Secretary General & CEO, Mr. Chris Roberts OBE. ‘By upholding these measures, we not only fortify the safety and welfare of our athletes but also ensure a level playing field where every competitor has an equal opportunity to excel without being unlawfully deprived. The commitment to continual improvement in testing standards underscores our shared vision for an inclusive and transparent boxing environment.'
Mr. Roberts OBE stressed that IBA cares about all boxers in the first instance and wishes that the highest standards of integrity are maintained wherever our boxers are competing.
'In tandem with sex testing, we are encouraged by the announcement of comprehensive age and weight testing protocols; surprisingly over the past few years, we have seen boxers from certain countries who have indeed attempted to falsify age and passport credentials. These measures, again already aligned to IBA, promise to further reinforce fair competition for all athletes with standardized benchmarks. We look forward to this collaborative approach, knowing that this will undoubtedly benefit our National Federations and the boxers they represent,' Mr. Roberts continued.
Regarding the contentious issues that emerged during the Paris 2024 Olympics, the IBA remains unwavering in its decisions. We stand firmly by our assessments and intentions. Notably, as World Boxing is set to receive identical results from these evaluations, we anticipate a forthcoming gesture of accountability - a formal apology from those athletes whose actions, inadvertently or otherwise, diverted well-deserved Olympic accolades away from our rightful female boxers.
Over the nearly three years of painstaking experience and insight in navigating these complex issues, IBA’s governance and commitment to integrity have only strengthened. We continue to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with our athletes, championing decisions that uphold fairness, respect, and the true spirit of competitive sports.
'Our endorsement of collaborative initiatives reflects our deep-rooted commitment to enhancing athlete safety and competitive integrity. Through meticulous testing protocols, we are working to create an environment where fairness prevails, and every participant is respected. Equally, our firm stance on decisions arising from the Paris Olympics is a testament to our dedication to safeguarding the legacy of our female boxers. Together, these endeavours not only enhance our shared mission of transparency and fairness but also pave the way for the continued evolution and excellence of the sport,' Roberts concluded.
IBA encourages further reaction from international boxing governing bodies in alignment with eligibility rules to make boxing the pioneer sport in securing highest integrity standards for athletes in terms of gender eligibility.
Recent PhilBoxing.com In-House articles:
Preparation and Planning are Keys to Pacquiao’s Success
By Ed de la Vega, DDS, Wed, 04 Jun 2025THURSDAY: Albert Ramirez-Michael Flannery Battle of Unbeatens to Stream LIVE in the U.S. on ESPN+
Wed, 04 Jun 2025Is Martin next Manny?
By Joaquin Henson, Wed, 04 Jun 2025AMMO LANDS IBF WORLD TITLE FINAL ELIMINATOR AGAINST OLIHA ON BAM-CAFU SHOW
Wed, 04 Jun 2025Bree Howling Ready to Shine in Battle of Undefeated Bantamweights on Most Valuable Prospects 13 June 7th
Wed, 04 Jun 2025HALL OF FAME FIGHT NIGHT FIGHT WEEK NEWS AND NOTES
Wed, 04 Jun 2025THRILLA IN MANILA GOLDEN ANNIVERSARY 6 - ALI KNOCKS FOREMAN OUT IN RUMBLE IN THE JUNGLE
By Maloney L. Samaco, Tue, 03 Jun 2025WEIGHTS FROM NASHVILLE, TENNESSEE
Tue, 03 Jun 2025CSAC Overturns Navarrete-Suarez Result, Orders Immediate Rematch
Tue, 03 Jun 2025THE PAST WEEK IN ACTION 2 June 2025: Takei Stops Tongdee in 1; Nunez Defeats Rikiishi; Melikuziev Outpoints Fulghum; Resendiz Upsets Plant; Charlo Stops LaManna
By Eric Armit, Tue, 03 Jun 2025Undefeated Bantamweight Reina Tellez to Face Veteran Maria Salinas on Most Valuable Prospects 13
Tue, 03 Jun 2025Former New York Boxing Chairperson Ron Scott Stevens still enthusiastic about Boxing, Film & Theater in California
Tue, 03 Jun 2025FM Cu rules Chess Mind Grandprix May Edition
By Marlon Bernardino, Tue, 03 Jun 2025Brooklyn Heavyweight Pryce Taylor to honor George Foreman this Friday night at Turning Stone on International Boxing HOF Night
Tue, 03 Jun 2025HALL OF FAME FLIES FLAGS AT HALF-STAFF FOR THREE-DIVISION CHAMPION MIKE MCCALLUM
Tue, 03 Jun 2025