Boxing Secures Spot in 2028 Los Angeles Olympics Following IOC Approval

Boxing's Inclusion in the 2028 Olympics

Boxing has officially been added to the lineup for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, following the approval from the International Olympic Committee's (IOC) executive board ahead of its 144th session commencing on Tuesday.

This decision comes after the IOC granted provisional recognition to World Boxing last month, effectively sidelining the International Boxing Association (IBA) and transferring governance to the newly established body.

The IOC Session scheduled for March 18-21 is anticipated to ratify this executive board decision, which includes boxing in the LA Games. IOC President Thomas Bach expressed confidence in the approval, stating, “With the provisional recognition of World Boxing in February, we were able to make this decision, and it will be presented at the session.”

Bach added, “I am optimistic that the session will endorse it, ensuring that boxers worldwide can participate in the LA Olympics, provided their national federation is recognized by World Boxing.”

Previously, the IOC managed the boxing events for the 2024 Paris Games after it withdrew recognition from the IBA in 2023 due to ongoing governance disputes and concerns about bout integrity.

World Boxing president Boris van der Vorst welcomed the IOC's decision, stating, “This is a crucial and significant step for Olympic boxing, bringing the sport closer to its reinstatement in the Olympic program. I am confident this will be positively received by everyone involved in boxing.”