Gennady Golovkin announced his candidacy for president of World Boxing, pledging to protect the sport’s Olympic future. The former world champion said he aims to restore global confidence and ensure fair opportunities for all boxers.
“With your trust, I will secure boxing’s Olympic place, rebuild credibility, and help every athlete and federation grow,” said the 43-year-old. Golovkin, who won Olympic silver for Kazakhstan, held multiple middleweight titles and earned a reputation as one of boxing’s most dominant fighters.
Although he has not officially retired, Golovkin has not entered the ring since losing his trilogy bout to Saul ‘Canelo’ Alvarez in September 2022. His only career defeats came against Alvarez, following a controversial draw many observers felt Golovkin deserved to win.
Boxing’s Olympic Battle Enters New Phase
Boxing’s Olympic status faced uncertainty after the International Boxing Association (IBA) lost its recognition by the International Olympic Committee (IOC). The IOC expelled the IBA in 2023 over concerns about corruption, governance, and ethics.
In response, global federations formed World Boxing to secure the sport’s Olympic position. The IOC granted the organization provisional recognition in February, allowing boxing to remain on the Los Angeles 2028 program. The IOC previously managed boxing events directly at the Tokyo 2020 and Paris 2024 Olympics.
World Boxing will hold its presidential election in Rome on 23 November. Current president Boris van der Vorst confirmed he will not seek re-election, opening the door for a new leader to guide the federation.
Golovkin Faces Greek Challenger in Leadership Contest
Golovkin outlined his mission for the next two years: achieve full IOC recognition and secure boxing’s place at the 2028 and 2032 Olympic Games. “Beyond recognition, we must rebuild our reputation through respect, transparency, and unity,” he said.
His challenger, Greece’s Mariolis Charilaos, led the Hellenic Boxing Federation from 2021 to 2025, implementing major governance reforms. “Boxing was born in Greece and has always embodied strength, endurance, and fair play,” Charilaos said.
Both candidates promise to unify the global boxing community. The election in November will determine who leads the sport through one of its most crucial moments in modern Olympic history.
