▪️The Board approved the minutes from the previous meeting held in December 2025 in Dubai, UAE. Key decisions were made with some clear focus moving forward for the organisation.
▪️The Board okayed targeted amendments to the IBA Technical & Competition Rules, including the introduction of a new heavyweight category (92-100 kg), removal of the Standing Eight Count in Elite Men Competitions
April 16, 2026
Lausanne, Switzerland:The International Boxing Association (IBA) Board of Directors convened via zoom for its scheduled meeting, addressing key governance, regulatory, and development matters critical in enhancing the future of international boxing.
Secretary General & CEO Chris Roberts OBE opened up the meeting on behalf of IBA President Umar Kremlev, welcoming board members and emphasizing the IBAs ongoing commitment to transparency, fairness, and global growth. The Board approved the minutes from the previous meeting held in December 2025 in Dubai, UAE.
Key decisions were made with some clear focus moving forward for the organisation.
Membership Expansion. The Board formally welcomed the Indian Amateur Boxing Federation (IABF) as a full IBA member, reflecting the IBAs continued growth and outreach. Ongoing efforts to increase membership include active engagement with a number of other key National Federations.
Governance and Regulatory Updates
The Board approved significant amendments to the IBA Organisational Regulations, including clarifications on eligibility appeals, a renewed commitment to gender equality within committees, and the replacement of Continental Confederations with new Continental Units. The Board also endorsed the delegation of authority to the IBA Secretary General & CEO for technical amendments, streamlining regulatory updates.
BIIU Procedural Rules
Updates to the Boxing Independent Integrity Unit (BIIU) Procedural Rules were adopted, enhancing procedures for dispute resolution, ethics, and disciplinary matters. The revised rules reinforce confidentiality, legal representation, and equal treatment for all parties.
Technical and Competition Rule Amendments
The Board approved targeted amendments to the IBA Technical & Competition Rules, including the introduction of a new heavyweight category (92-100 kg), removal of the Standing Eight Count in Elite Men Competitions, and the implementation of the Referee Error Protest (REP) process to address objective officiating errors. These changes aim to further strengthen fairness, safety, and the credibility of IBA competitions.
Innovation and Development
The IBA reaffirmed its commitment to innovation by introducing Artificial Intelligence (AI) as a support tool to enhance transparency and operational efficiency, while maintaining human oversight in decision-making. The Board also reviewed ongoing professional development initiatives, including international coaching and officiating courses, and specialized education in bare-knuckle boxing.
Official Visits and Outreach
Reports were presented on recent official visits to Cape Verde and Mexico, where IBA leadership engaged with national sports authorities, distributed equipment to local athletes, and explored new event opportunities.
IBA President Umar Kremlev concluded by reiterating the IBA’s dedication to upholding the highest standards of governance and sporting integrity stating: “These decisions reflect our shared vision for a stronger, more inclusive, and globally respected IBA”.
