The WBA statement notes that if a Russian or Belarusian boxer supports the military operation, he will be expelled from the organization.
Photo: Torsten Helmke / Imago Images / Global Look Press
The World Boxing Association (WBA) has announced the return of Russian and Belarusian athletes to the organization’s rankings, reported on the official Twitter account of the organization (the social network is blocked in Russia).
“The athletes of this country are not soldiers or are part of the government, so they have nothing to do with any ongoing conflict. However, it has been decided that any boxer who speaks out in support of or participates in a special military operation will be removed immediately,” the WBA said in a statement.
Russian boxer Dmitry Bivol December 13 it has been recognized the best boxer of the year according to the WBA.
In March, the International Boxing Association (IBA) banned Russian athletes from participating in international tournaments under its auspices. At the same time, the WBA announced that Russian and Belarusian fighters would be excluded from the rankings, however, current world champions or individual regions would retain their status.