Former middleweight champion Gennady Golovkin won the presidency of World Boxing unopposed in Rome.
He succeeds Dutchman Boris van der Vorst, who stepped down after one term.
Golovkin pledged to restore trust and credibility in the sport after years of governance issues.
He emphasized securing boxing’s long-term inclusion in future Olympic Games.
World Boxing earned provisional recognition from the International Olympic Committee in February.
The IOC organized boxing at the 2020 and 2024 Games after expelling the International Boxing Association.
Olympic Legacy and Career Achievements
Golovkin won an Olympic silver medal at Athens 2004 in the middleweight division.
He claimed multiple world and Asian amateur titles before turning professional.
Golovkin held the middleweight world championship and is considered one of his generation’s fiercest fighters.
He fought Saul ‘Canelo’ Alvarez in a trilogy, finishing with a record of 45 fights and two losses.
Golovkin has not competed since September 2022, after the final bout with Alvarez.
Vision for Boxing’s Future
Golovkin pledged to prioritize athletes, integrity, innovation, and financial stability in his leadership.
He promised to build a federation that athletes can trust and the Olympic community respects.
Golovkin said, “With your help, we can secure full IOC recognition for the 2028 Games and beyond.”
He aims to restore boxing’s Olympic presence and strengthen governance after IBA’s suspension in 2019.
Golovkin called his agenda “about unity,” highlighting transparency and athlete-focused decision-making.
The new president plans to ensure fair refereeing, ethical standards, and long-term financial growth.
