The International Olympic Committee (IOC) unanimously voted on Thursday to include boxing in the 2028 Los Angeles Summer Games, ending years of uncertainty about the sport’s Olympic future. The decision follows the IOC’s provisional recognition of World Boxing, a new governing body formed in 2023, which now oversees over 80 national federations.
IOC President Thomas Bach welcomed the outcome, stating: "We can look forward to a great boxing tournament." The sport’s inclusion comes after the IOC stripped the International Boxing Association (IBA) of its authority in 2023 over governance concerns, leading the committee to manage the 2024 Paris Olympics boxing events directly.
World Boxing President Boris van der Vorst hailed the decision as a "great day for boxers" and emphasized the organization’s commitment to Olympic values. Athletes from national federations affiliated with World Boxing by the start of LA 2028 qualifiers will be eligible to compete, ensuring a fresh era of accountability for the sport.
This milestone preserves boxing’s Olympic legacy dating back to 1904, providing clarity for athletes, coaches, and fans ahead of the LA Games.
