FABA warns clubs against joining IBA-sanctioned events

The Fiji Amateur Boxing Association (FABA) has issued a formal warning to boxing clubs, athletes, coaches and officials in Fiji against engaging with the International Boxing Association (IBA), stating that the organisation is no longer recognised by the International Olympic Committee (IOC).

In an official statement, FABA said it had become aware that individuals claiming to represent the IBA had contacted local boxing clubs in Fiji, inviting them to affiliate with the organisation and participate in IBA-sanctioned competitions within the country.

FABA clarified that it is the sole recognised governing body for amateur boxing in Fiji, operating under the authority of the IOC Charter and Rules, and is recognised by World Boxing, the IOC-endorsed international federation for amateur boxing.

The association stressed that the IBA has no affiliation whatsoever with World Boxing, and that the IOC has withdrawn its recognition of the IBA due to governance failures, lack of financial transparency, and officiating concerns. That decision, FABA said, was confirmed by the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) and is binding on IOC-recognised national federations, including FABA.

According to the statement, only boxing clubs, athletes, coaches and officials registered with FABA are eligible to participate in international competitions sanctioned by World Boxing. These include the Oceania Confederation events, the Pacific Games, Commonwealth Games, Youth Olympic Games and the Olympic Games.

FABA further stated that it does not approve or endorse the IBA in any form, and that no individuals associated with the IBA are authorised to collect membership fees, competition fees, or represent FABA in any capacity in Fiji.

The association warned that any amateur boxing club in Fiji that registers with, joins, or competes in IBA-organised events will be immediately deregistered as a FABA-affiliated club. Similar sanctions apply to athletes, coaches, referees, judges and officials who participate in IBA events, all of whom risk immediate deregistration from FABA.

While describing the situation as unfortunate, the FABA Board said the statement was issued unanimously in the best interests of all stakeholders and to safeguard athletes’ pathways to international competition under a transparent and IOC-aligned framework.

FABA said it remains open to dialogue with clubs, coaches, athletes and officials seeking clarification on the implications of associating with the IBA, and encouraged stakeholders to contact the association directly for further information.

The statement was signed by Vinaka Panapasa Daunakamakama, President of the Fiji Amateur Boxing Association.