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) announced the return of Russian and Belarusian athletes to the ratings of the organization, reported on the organization’s official Twitter account (the social network is blocked in Russia).
“Athletes from this country are not soldiers or 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 13 December was recognized the best boxer of the year according to the WBA.
In March, the International Boxing Association (IBA) banned athletes from Russia 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 rating lists, however, the current world champions or individual regions would retain their status.