IABA to boycott upcoming World Boxing Championships

Ireland will not be sending teams to the men's and women's World Boxing Championships after the Irish Athletic Boxing Association (IABA) voted to boycott the upcoming events in India and Uzbekistan.

IABA referees and judges will also not officiate at either tournament.

The decision was made at a joint meeting of the IABA's Board of Directors and Central Council in Dublin on Thursday night, where council members voted 15-5 not to send teams in a mark of protest against alleged corruption in the International Boxing Association (IBA).

In a statement issued on Friday, the IABA stated that current IBA practices and activities are not serving the well, while adding that its athletes are focused on preparations for the European Games in June, and winning qualification to Paris 2024.

The full statement read: "Irish Athletic Boxing Association athletes will not take part in the IBA Women's World Championships in India in March, or the IBA Men’s World Championships in Uzbekistan in May. IABA referees and judges will not officiate at either tournament.

"The decision was taken on Thursday night, following a joint meeting of the IABA’s Board of Directors, Central Council and Unit representatives.

"The IABA urges the IBA to engage in governance reform and implement the recommendations of its own experts on fiscal responsibility, fair play, and inclusion. IBA practices and activities are not of the standard required to secure our sport’s future.

"There are no winners in the current landscape. All members deserve a level playing field in tournaments run to the highest possible standard by an organization which has their welfare, their futures, and their sport at its heart.

"The IABA and its athletes are focused on preparations for the European