Lausanne, Switzerland : International Boxing Association (IBA) President Umar Kremlev has reaffirmed the organisation’s commitment to supporting boxers worldwide, speaking at the official weigh-in and final face-offs in Tashkent ahead of IBA NOMAD 16.
Kremlev emphasised that supporting athletes is the IBA’s core responsibility, ensuring boxers have access to essential equipment, resources and opportunities to compete internationally without financial or logistical concerns.
“There is no need to thank us. It is our duty and our obligation to help athletes, so that they do not have to worry about where to find equipment or how to get to competitions. IBA is the international home of boxing. We are obliged to help every boxer, wherever they are in the world,” Kremlev said.
He also highlighted the importance of athletes representing their countries with pride, stressing that their focus should remain on achieving strong results and honouring the dedication of their coaches and mentors.
“The main thing is that boxers compete and bring joy to the spectators,” Kremlev said, adding that athletes should strive to make their people proud when their national flags are raised and national anthems are played.
During the event, Kremlev also addressed athletes’ freedom of choice, offered a rematch in the disputed Shumkov–Kholokov bout and announced a title defence for Hasanboy Dusmatov, underlining the IBA’s focus on athlete support and competitive opportunities.
