AFBC Condemns Illegal Boxing Championship in Tunisia, Warns Against Participation

The African Boxing Confederation (AFBC) has strongly condemned the unauthorized "African Pro Boxing Contest," scheduled to take place in Tunis, Tunisia, on January 24, 2025. The illegal event is spearheaded by General Luyoyo, a removed former AFBC Vice President, and his associates. The AFBC has declared the competition a direct violation of its governance and the regulations of the International Boxing Association (IBA).

In an official directive sent to national federations, officials, coaches, and boxers, AFBC President Eyassu Wossen Berhanu reiterated the confederation's zero-tolerance stance on unauthorized events, emphasizing that such actions undermine the integrity of African boxing.

The AFBC identified three key violations committed by the organizers:

1. Illegal Status and Non-Recognition:

The event lacks sanctioning from the AFBC and IBA, violating Article 5.1 of the AFBC Constitution.
It fails to meet the required IBA Technical and Competition Regulations, as stipulated under Article 44.1.

2. Breach of AFBC’s Exclusive Rights:

Article 42.1 grants AFBC exclusive control over all boxing competitions under its jurisdiction. The unauthorized contest is a blatant disregard for this provision.

3. Prohibition of Participation:

Under Article 11.1(b), federations, officials, and boxers are prohibited from taking part in unsanctioned events. Violators face disciplinary measures, including a ban from future AFBC or IBA-sanctioned competitions, as per Article 10.1(d).

The AFBC has issued a strict warning to all member federations, officials, and athletes, emphasizing that participation in the illegal championship will result in severe disciplinary action.

“This event, led by a removed former AFBC official, is an attack on the principles and governance of our sport. We urge everyone to uphold the integrity of African boxing by rejecting any involvement,” stated President Eyassu Wossen Berhanu.

The confederation has called on the Ministry of Youth and Sports in Tunisia and the Tunisia Boxing Federation to take immediate steps to halt the event.

AFBC remains committed to protecting the sport’s governance and fostering the development of boxing across the continent.