In a major blow to one of the oldest and most beloved Olympic sports, boxing will not be featured on the program of the Los Angeles 2028 Games. This decision by the International Olympic Committee (IOC) comes amidst increasing tension and allegations of corruption within the sport’s governing body, the International Boxing Association (AIBA) and its Russian president Umar Kremlev.
Boxing has a long and storied tradition in the Olympics, dating back to its inclusion in the St. Louis 1904 Games. However, the sport was left out of the program in Stockholm 2012, and now faces another setback with its exclusion from the Los Angeles 2028 Games. This decision was made by the IOC after setting a deadline of 2025 to determine the future of boxing in the Olympics.
This decision has ramifications for numerous countries and athletes, including powerhouses like Colombia and Mexico, who have produced Olympic medalists in boxing. It also means the end of a major platform for aspiring boxers to showcase their talents on the world stage.
The notification of boxing’s exclusion from the Los Angeles 2028 Games has already been sent to the respective national committees. This marks a significant setback for the sport and raises concerns about its future in the Olympics. However, the IOC stands firm on its stance that boxing can only be included if it is under the jurisdiction of a credible and transparent governing body.
Only time will tell if boxing will be able to clean up its act and make a comeback in the Los Angeles 2028 Games.