Big IBA plans signal opportunity but local gyms urged to stay focused

WHILE the International Boxing Association's (IBA) renewed commitment to supporting boxers across Africa has brought a wave of optimism, local clubs have been urged not to get swept away in the excitement just yet.

- STAFF REPORTER

IOL Sport’s Julian Kiewietz recently reported that the IBA recently reaffirmed its plans to grow both amateur and professional competition structures, offering what could become a career-changing opportunity for athletes training at grassroots level.

"Future IBA.Pro competitions will continue to feature some of the world’s most established professional boxers and will also include amateur match-ups, in line with the feeder-system design that the IBA aims to grow," said IBA.Pro director Al Siesta.

That vision resonates deeply with fighters sweating it out in gym halls from Kimberley to Cairo — places where opportunities are often few and far between, and where raw talent is in abundant supply.