Registration open for IBA Professional Certification Programme. iba

Training for IBA referees, judges and technical delegates begins. The aim is to provide officials with the necessary knowledge to officiate at the professional events planned for 2025. These courses will be held in Assisi, Italy, from 6 to 9 September.

In order to professionalise the staff involved in the organisation's events, the IBA is continuing its efforts. Registration is now open for the International Boxing Association's Professional Certification Programme, which will produce the next generation of officials.

The aim of the programme is to provide officials with the knowledge, skills and experience necessary to officiate at all IBA professional boxing events in their current form and those planned up to 2025.

The way in which the IBA intends to train officials is through workshops and training courses to achieve the necessary qualifications. Three-star referees and judges, as well as technical delegates, will achieve these qualifications, allowing them to be part of the IBA's professional event calendar.

The support for boxing in certain countries enables young people to consider it as an alternative for their lives. GETTY IMAGES
The support for boxing in certain countries enables young people to consider it as an alternative for their lives. GETTY IMAGES

These courses will be held in Assisi, Italy, from 6 to 9 September. Previous experience must be accredited. Applications will be assessed by the IBA Board to ensure they meet the required standards.

The training programme is divided into theoretical and practical modules. Topics covered include scoring criteria, movement and management in the ring, and the differences between amateur and professional officiating.

Participants in the programme will receive intensive high-level training to help them better understand working in the professional arena. There will also be modules specifically dedicated to the new iteration of the IBA Professional Technical and Competition Rules and Regulations.

The referees will receive training to participate in the events of 2025. GETTY IMAGES
The referees will receive training to participate in the events of 2025. GETTY IMAGES

The Champions' Night series remains one of the IBA's most important events. It is a platform that becomes an opportunity for young boxers from the countries where it is held. With this event, the IBA aims to bring boxing to places where its popularity has grown but still needs a boost. Its commitment to this spectacle is growing, with 10 events already held in 2024, compared to nine in 2023.

Four events are planned for August alone, in Ufa, Addis Ababa, Caracas and Havana. Addis Ababa in Ethiopia will be the first African city to host an IBA Champions' Night. It will take place on 17 August. This will be a support and a way to promote the sport for Africa and its boxing scene. 

Events like this are generating interest and are initiatives supported by some national leaders to make boxing attractive to young athletes.