Olympic boxing in Paris

Australian boxer Harry Garside has expressed grave concerns over the potential exclusion of boxing from the Olympic Games, labeling it a 'crime against humanity.' The International Olympic Committee (IOC) has derecognized the International Boxing Association due to governance issues and announced it will not organize a boxing tournament for the Los Angeles 2028 Olympics, leaving the sport's future uncertain. Garside emphasized that boxing is a vital platform for athletes, particularly from developing nations, and that its removal would impact young dreamers worldwide. Additionally, fellow Australian Caitlin Parker highlighted the significance of boxing for women, who have only been able to compete in the Olympics since 2012. With Australia fielding a record 12 boxers at the Paris Games, both Garside and Parker fear that the loss of Olympic boxing would hinder future opportunities for athletes, particularly those from disadvantaged backgrounds. The situation remains precarious as the IOC has given boxing until early 2025 to establish a new governing body.