Predictable. Like its rival World Boxing, the International Boxing Association (IBA) was quick to react to the comments of Kit McConnell, IOC sports director, calling on Tuesday March 19 at a press conference the national federations to “ work towards creation » of a new international body in order to preserve the future of boxing at the Olympic Games after Paris 2024. But, just as predictable, the tone of the IBA press release turns out to be very different from World Boxing statement, who welcomed the IOC's position. The IBA and its president, the Russian Umar Kremlev (photo above), are attacking the Olympic body head on, accusing it of creating through its declarations the “ division, uncertainty and instability within the sporting community”. The press release continues: “ The reality and truth is that there is no alternative to the IBA as a governing body, neither financially nor in terms of organization and experience. With its statements, the IOC ruling elite constantly interferes in the affairs of the IBA and other international sports federations, violating the principles of its own Olympic Charter, freedom of expression and imposing its own fictitious rules (…) In the name of their ambition to kill the IBA, these people are ready to destroy the entire sport, the dreams of our young people and the opportunities for the next generation of champions. It's not about the IBA as an organization, but about its members – thousands of boxers, coaches and officials. » Suggesting that World Boxing does not have the support of the IOC, the IBA assures that its rival “ failed to muster the critical mass or financial support needed to survive”. Still according to the IBA, World Boxing would not have attracted any global partner, and would operate with a budget of only $900.000.
