The International Boxing Association (IBA) used its Sport + Business Forum in Istanbul to send a sharp message: the future of sport belongs to those who unite, not divide.
IBA president Umar Kremlev shared the stage with Donald Trump Jr., Manny Pacquiao, and Rasheda Ali Walsh, daughter of Muhammad Ali — turning the event into a rare mix of boxing royalty and global business muscle.
Kremlev told the room:
“Sport has always been a peacekeeper, and so it should stay. Boxing should give athletes everywhere a future free of politics and full of new chances.”
Why did Trump Jr. step into boxing’s business fight?
Trump Jr. spoke personally about the sport’s impact on him:
“I grew up watching Saturday night fights from the front row. Even after brutal fights, opponents show deep respect — that’s the best of people. What Umar is doing — restoring fairness and giving youth a chance — is extraordinary.”
Rasheda Ali Walsh tied the message to her father’s legacy:
“My father used boxing as a platform for peace and dignity. Greatness isn’t just titles; it’s the impact we leave on humanity.”
Pacquiao calls out politics and backs a new future
Manny Pacquiao reminded everyone how politics once blocked his amateur career:
“For two years I tried to join the Philippine Olympic team but was stopped by politics. I turned pro at 16 and two years later became a world champion. That’s why grassroots boxing is vital, and IBA is doing that.”
He also introduced his new League of Destiny, aimed at giving fighters from every nation a real shot.
Who’s shaping boxing’s next power map?
Kremlev named Kaan Karakaya as IBA’s official representative in Türkiye, calling him “a bridge between worlds.” Karakaya promised to grow Turkish boxing and push IBA’s global vision forward.
The event felt less like a ceremony and more like a power shift — old champions, business players, and legacy families joining forces to build a fairer, less political boxing future.
The next big step comes with the IBA Men’s World Boxing Championships in Dubai, where Kremlev invited Trump Jr. to welcome the world boxing community and show this new alliance in action.
Last Updated on 09/29/2025
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