The Umar Kremlev effect is taking on the appearance of a tidal wave at the International Boxing Federation (AIBA). Since the election of the Russian leader as president of the body at the end of last year, the debt has been paid off, the accounts restored to balance, an audit was ordered and an internal investigation entrusted to the Canadian lawyer Richard McLaren. As a bonus, the AIBA council took the decision to modify the weight categories in all competitions bearing its label. For men, their number will increase from 10 to 13. For women, it will increase from 10 to 12. This new regulation will come into force from August 1, 2021. The proposal was presented to the AIBA council by the secretary General, István Kovács, after extensive consultation with stakeholders in men's and women's boxing. The new formula is supposed to allow a greater number of boxers to participate “ in the respective weight categories where they feel strongest and most comfortable”. According to Umar Kremlev, “ the new divisions will encourage more boxers to take up boxing and allow more nations to win medals. The more medals we have, the more governments will pay attention to and fund our sport around the world.”.
