IBA need to 'float like a butterfly and sting like a bee' if they are to make real changes

“THIS is the Oscars of boxing!” These were the excitable words of former World Boxing Council (WBC) and International Boxing Organization (IBO) heavyweight champion Tyson Fury.

- ZAAHIER ADAMS

The retired Mancunian, also known as “The Gypsy King”, also exclaimed “Show me the money” when asked if he would make a comeback for a shot at the International Boxing Association (IBA) Pro heavyweight championship belt - which just so happens to be 5.5 kilograms of pure gold.

Fury's comments though were in line with the spectacular events on a glorious sunlit day alongside the Bosphorus where the IBA were launching a 'Golden Era' ahead of the IBA.Pro 7 Champions' Night at the Rixos Tersane Istanbul.

The 'A-listers' were all there on full HD display. Alongside Fury was former undisputed welterweight and junior welterweight champion Terence Crawford, Rasheda Ali - daughter of the late Muhamad Ali, the face of Turkish Airlines, actor Kerem Bursin, IBA President Umar Kremlev and none other than British supermodel Naomi Campbell.

In fact, Campbell headlined a glittering fashion show that lit up the press conference.