IBA President Umar Kremlev launched the 'Golden Age of Boxing' in Istanbul

IBA President Umar Kremlev, together with four-weight world champion Terence Crawford and former heavyweight world champion Tyson Fury, shared their goals for amateur and professional boxing with the public.

President Kremlev stated in his speech that they will provide an inclusive support system to athletes all over the world, and said, “Our goal is for every athlete to see IBA as their home. Wherever they are, IBA will be by their side. We want to make sports a door of opportunity and contribute to building the future of children and their families.”

Kremlev also stated that the IBA has established a structure that includes not only amateur boxing but also professional and bare-knuckle boxing, adding, “Bare-knuckle fighting is the birthplace of boxing. We aim to embrace this history, organize this area and provide new opportunities for athletes.”

The event was held before the Albert Batyrgaziev-James “Jazza” Dickens match that took place on the same day. Turkey- James ‘Jazza’ Dickens delivered the best performance of his career by knocking out Albert Batyrgaziev in the fourth round at the star-studded IBA Pro 7 event held in Istanbul. IBA Pro Director Al Siesta stated that this structure offers a career path for athletes, saying, “This place is like the Real Madrid of boxing. You prove yourself in the amateurs, then you move on to the professional arena with IBA.Pro. This is not a competition; it is a system open to everyone. Anyone with talent can find a place here.”

INVESTMENT IN YOUNG TALENTS

IBA Secretary General and CEO Chris Roberts OBE, in his speech underlining the investments in infrastructure, said, “The IBA is now a true ecosystem. We have a structure that monitors, guides and supports athletes from a young age. Umar Kremlev has made serious investments in federations that do not have the means. Our aim is to transform today’s children into tomorrow’s stars.”

Terence Crawford, who will enter the ring with Canelo Alvarez in September, appreciated the support that the IBA gives to young athletes, saying, “There are many talented children who do not have financial means. The IBA supports them and this is very valuable. It is important for them to have a chance to step on stage.” Crawford stated that he had been training even before the event and emphasized that he was physically and mentally ready for the big fight.

TYSON FURY PRAISE FOR INFRASTRUCTURE

Tyson Fury, who started his career under the former IBA structure AIBA, expressed his satisfaction with the support given to young athletes in his speech, saying, “When I was an amateur, I had neither financial support nor equipment. Now, talented young people are supported, it is incredible. I would like to thank Umar Kremlev; his investment in sports and young people is really great.”

At the end of the event, when Derek Chisora ​​asked Fury if he would step into the ring with Anthony Joshua for the IBA Pro Heavyweight title, his response was clear and witty:

"Of course, 100 percent. I'm ready to get in the ring if there's a good offer. I'm young, free and open to getting back in the ring!"

In the night's boxing-style fight, Turkish athlete Murat Kazgan defeated Australian Will Chope by unanimous decision after three rounds. In the opening bout, Kazakhstan's Mikhail Kokhanchik knocked down Azerbaijan's Elnur Süleymanov in the first round before winning the fight by referee decision after three rounds.

DHA

Reporter: News Center