World Boxing Applauds IOC’s Move to Reinstate Boxing for LA28

World Boxing has welcomed the International Olympic Committee (IOC) Executive Board’s decision to propose the inclusion of boxing in the sports program for the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games (LA28). The proposal will be put to a vote at the 144th IOC Session, set to take place in Costa Navarino, Greece, from March 19–21, 2025.

If approved, boxing will officially return to the Olympic program for LA28, marking a major step forward for the sport.

Boris van der Vorst, President of World Boxing, emphasized the significance of this decision, stating:

“This is a crucial and positive moment for Olympic boxing, bringing the sport closer to full reinstatement. I have no doubt that this news will be welcomed by everyone involved in boxing worldwide, as the sport’s place in the Olympic Movement is vital to its future.”

He also expressed gratitude to the IOC Executive Board for its trust in World Boxing and optimism for a favorable decision at the upcoming session.

“World Boxing recognizes that inclusion in the Olympic Games is a privilege, not a right. If boxing is reinstated for LA28, we are fully committed to being a dependable and responsible partner that upholds the values of the Olympic Charter.”

Established in April 2023, World Boxing was founded with the mission of securing boxing’s place in the Olympic Movement. The organization held its first formal meeting with the IOC in May 2024 and, on February 26, 2025, received provisional recognition as the International Federation governing world boxing within the Olympic Movement.