The International Boxing Association (IBA) has officially introduced “IBA Connect”, a
communication and production platform designed to structure collaboration between creators,
athletes and brands, also promising to deliver a “dynamic and ambitious” competition calendar
across all levels of the sport this year.
The IBA Connect launch event took place in Moscow last weekend with the support of IBA
President Umar Kremlev and brought together representatives of the sports and media
industries, bloggers, entrepreneurs and active athletes.
Among the attendees were Olympic champions Evgeny Tishchenko and Egor Mekhontsev as
well as newly-crowned WBA heavyweight world champion Murat Gassiev.
International Boxing Association CEO Chris Roberts presents Russias super heavyweight David Surov with his championship belt after he defeated Aman Makhanov of Uzbekistan 5-0.
Platform Overview: Structured Collaboration
IBA Connect is positioned as infrastructure for developing native content and building long-
term partnerships grounded in the values of sport and professional responsibility.
The platform is designed to facilitate structured co-operation between businesses and creators
through strategic production and communication support.
“The project operates across influencer development, marketing strategy, IT solutions and
content production. It supports micro, mid-level and large-scale creators, offering individual
collaboration models and production resources,” the IBA said in a statement.
“The platform’s Core Operating Principles revolve around three operational pillars namely
Energy (developing creative potential and directing it toward constructive initiatives),
Strength (providing professional production infrastructure and high-quality execution) and
Unity (enabling direct cooperation between businesses and creators based on aligned
objectives).”
A dedicated area of IBA Connect’s work will focus on athletes, including those transitioning
from professional competition. The platform aims to support personal brand development,
media adaptation and new professional roles within the digital environment.
Athlete-centred platform
The launch came as IBA’s Secretary General and CEO Chris Roberts said the period ahead
presents significant opportunity for growth, unity, and renewed purpose in the sport.
“It also demands professionalism, diligence, and the collective commitment of every individual
who contributes to the delivery and development of our sport. The IBA remains steadfast in its
mission to provide an athletecentred platform for the boxing community worldwide,” Roberts
said as he looked ahead into 2026, promising a “more robust and streamlined operational
effectiveness, ensuring both delivery and fiscal management are optimised.”
International Boxing Association President Umar Kremlev (centre) with CEO Chris Roberts and Elena Sobol, Head of President’s Operations, Communications and PR at the gala dinner at the Emirates Golf Club.
“We continue to remain acutely aware of the requirements necessary for success, always
linking our efforts to the needs and expectations of our audience. This commitment guides our
ongoing progress and shapes our priorities for the future,” Roberts said.
“The strength of the IBA lies not only in its competitions but in the diverse team of
professionals who support its daily operations. From logistics and event delivery to legal, governance, administration and international relations functions, our workforce reflects a
breadth of expertise essential for navigating the complexities of this modern sport.”
Tireless efforts of President Kremlev
Roberts acknowledged the tireless efforts of IBA President Umar Kremlev “whose passion for
the development of global boxing continues to influence the organisation’s direction.”
“His energy, outreach, and commitment to providing pathways for athletes and national
federations remain essential pillars of our shared work. Under his leadership, the IBA has
expanded opportunities for participation, strengthened its presence in new regions, and upheld
the principle that boxing must remain accessible to all,” Roberts said.
The IBA chief executive has promised to deliver “a dynamic and ambitious competition calendar
across all levels of the sport” that will be highlighted by Continental Championships.
“Our upcoming continental events will continue to serve as foundational competitions for elite
and developing athletes alike. These championships foster regional pride, enhance technical
standards, and ensure wide representation across the global boxing pathway,” he said.
Launch of the IBA International Boxing League
A new addition to the IBA calendar, the International Boxing League, will be introduced mid-
year, designed to promote team identity, national spirit, and innovative presentation formats
that resonate with IBA’s modern audiences.
“Looking further ahead, we anticipate a significant celebration of boxing to coincide with
the IBA Congress 2026, bringing together leaders, athletes, officials, and partners in a unified
demonstration of the sport’s global strength. These events reflect the IBA’s commitment to
excellence, access, and the continuous enhancement of competition structures,” Roberts
added.
He said the IBA will continue to prioritise good governance and operational transparency;
athlete welfare, development, and opportunity; the professionalisation of IBA’s administrative
and technical structures; effective global engagement and partnership building and the delivery
of world-class competitions at every level.
International Boxing Association CEO Chris Roberts and Elena Sobol, Head of President’s Operations, Communications and PR at the IBA, watch a drone show during the gala dinner at the Emirates Golf Club.
“Our focus remains on building trust, reinforcing stability, and ensuring that boxing is
represented with integrity on every stage. The future of the IBA will be defined by the quality of
our work, the strength of our relationships, and the professionalism of our people,” Roberts
noted.
Holistic approach
“I am proud of the team that serves this organisation daily, and grateful for the continued
dedication of our President, national federations, athletes, coaches, officials, and staff.
“In addition to our core initiatives, we recognise that our work within the sports ecosystem
encompasses far more than what happens inside the ring. We continually evaluate all aspects
of our operations, ensuring that we cater to the interests and passions of our global audiences
both on and off the field of play.
“This holistic approach allows us to foster deeper engagement and broaden the appeal of the
sport worldwide. Together, we will continue building a stronger, more unified, and more
resilient International Boxing Association; one that honours the sport’s heritage while embracing its future with confidence,” Roberts added in his season-launching reflection.
(Reporting from IBA resources)
