Boxing Legend Gennady Golovkin Elected President of World Boxing
Former unified middleweight champion Gennady Golovkin has been elected as the new President of World Boxing, the organization set to oversee boxing at the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. The 43-year-old boxing icon was elected by acclamation during the federation’s annual congress in Rome, as he was the sole remaining candidate.
“It is a privilege to be elected as the new president of World Boxing. But this is just the beginning,” Golovkin said. “Starting today, athletes will be at the heart of every decision we make. On the road to LA28, we will restore trust in Olympic boxing to secure our place in Brisbane beyond. Now it’s time to move forward as one united boxing family.”
From Ring Champion to Sports Administrator
Golovkin, known for his ferocious power and granite chin during a glittering career, now steps into a critical governance role. The Kazakh boxer, who won a silver medal at the 2004 Olympics, held two unified middleweight title reigns. He replaces Dutch administrator Boris van der Vorst, who did not seek re-election after being elected in 2023.
A Divided Boxing Landscape
Golovkin’s election comes amid a significant split in amateur boxing. Less than a month ago, legendary fighter Manny Pacquiao joined the rival International Boxing Association (IBA) as vice president, highlighting the deep division within the sport.
The fragmentation stems from years of governance and financial scandals at the IBA under president Umar Kremlev. After repeated warnings, the International Olympic Committee formally severed ties with the federation ahead of the Tokyo 2021 Games, citing persistent ethical concerns.
The IOC directly managed boxing competitions in both Tokyo and Paris while determining the sport’s Olympic future. In response, World Boxing emerged in 2023 as an alternative federation capable of meeting Olympic standards. The IOC has since recognized World Boxing as the official body responsible for organizing boxing at the Los Angeles 2028 Olympics.
(with AFP inputs)
