2012 IAB NEWS


HOME - JOIN - NEWS - EVENTS - RANKINGS - SANCTIONING - RULES & REGULATIONS - ABOUT IAB - WEIGHTS - LINKS - CONTACT




MONDAY, December 31st, 2012, AT 7:00 PM/ PST



"Keep To The Code!"


With so many making New Years Resolutions during this time of so many of us questioning our powerful political leaders, I thought I would take action instead of just talking about what I dislike about those in power. From here forward, I think all of us Fight Sport Officials need to take some of the same lessons many are wishing of our government leaders and put these lessons into ACTION! This being said, to all of our Officials with IAB Boxing, - IKF Kickboxing, and ISCF MMA I'd like to introduce you to our new motto… Yes, it's been used before by a popular movie, but I'm sure they won't mind when they know what we are referring to… For all of us Officials, let it be from here forward known that whenever any of us use the phrase,

"Keep To The Code!"

It shall ALWAYS refer to the following code for all of us as officials when working to help advance the fight sports with fairness and safety in mind. Our CODE is,

"Always DO the RIGHT Thing!"

That shouldn't be too hard to follow, and to add to it, post this where you can see it and read it EVERY DAY,

"How hard is it to Do the Right Thing? IT'S NOT, SO DO IT!"

May all of you enter 2013 with the Greatest of Goals and that you accomplish them all with the values of
Honor, Courage, Loyalty, Discipline, Honesty, Integrity, Benevolence, Politeness, Respect, Sincerity, Commitment and Self-Control!
Values we ALL should live by… ALWAYS!



Happy New Year Everyone!
See you all in 2013!






WEDNESDAY, December 12th, 2012, AT 7:30 PM/ PST



Results From Head Hunters Promotions
IAB Amateur Boxing
November 9th, 2012 - Gainesville, Georgia, USA




  1. IAB AMATEUR BOXING
    Daniel Colindres VS Josh Herndon
    WINNER: Daniel Colindres by Decision.

  2. IAB AMATEUR BOXING
    Tim Gonzales VS Jesus Alvarado
    WINNER: Tim Gonzales by Decision.

  3. IAB AMATEUR BOXING
    Adam Castillo VS Andrew Martin
    WINNER: Adam Castillo by Decision.

  4. IAB AMATEUR BOXING
    Ronnie Lewis VS Pablo Mercado
    WINNER: Ronnie Lewis by Decision.

  5. IAB AMATEUR BOXING
    Jose Martinez VS Randy Lynn
    WINNER: Jose Martinez by Decision.

  6. IAB AMATEUR BOXING
    Jarrad Mize VS Shomari Abdur Raheem
    WINNER: Jarrad Mize by KO in Round 2.
  7. IAB AMATEUR BOXING
    Jose Pizano VS Jeremy Jones
    WINNER: Jose Pizano by Decision.

  8. IAB AMATEUR BOXING
    Ronnie Lewis VS Pablo Mercado
    WINNER: Ronnie Lewis by Decision.



WEDNESDAY, November 7th, 2012, AT 6:00 PM/ PST

Results From Absolute Adrenaline Pure Fight Sport's
"PLATINUM Championship Fight Night"
November 4th, 2012 - Bournemouth, England




PRO FIGHT CARD


  1. IAB Professional Boxing: Light Heavyweight
    John Orchard (Bournemouth England, 57-4-2, 78.kg, 6'3", 9-17-79, Carl Sams (01202 294223)
    VS Shaun Law (Rotherham England, Boxing: 72-24-6 Kickboxing: 22-4-4: MMA: 2-2, 78.1kg, 6', 5-21-91, Bridie Murphy, 00447779784760)
    WINNER: John Orchard by unanimous decision 60-54, 60-54 & 60-54.
    The return of IKF World Middleweight Full Contact Champion John Orchard to the Boxing ranks did not disappoint as he delivered an absolute masterclass performance. Shaun Law has never been stopped or floored in well over 100 contests but he had to admit that in this contest he had never been hit so hard and from so many angles. The shut out victory was a joy to watch. As an added bonus new IKF World Super Middleweight Full Contact Champion James Wallis was in the audience and the pair squared off as Orchard offered the match for 2013. That should be a cracker!



  2. IKF Pro FCR: Lightweight
    Natalie Bee (Poole, England, 16-2-1, 59.1kg, 5'8", 11-26-81, John Orchard / Carl Sams, 01202294223)
    VS Lisa Schewe (Oburhausen, Germany, 27-5, 58.6kg, 5'5", 09-20-89, Ramon Logisch, 00447855473223)
    WINNER: Natalie Bee by unanimous decision 50-45, 50-45 & 50-45.
    Double IKF World Champion Natalie Bee looked on a totally different level as she outclassed European champion Lisa Schewe over the experimental distance of 5 x 3 in this Full contact contest. It was also fought in shorts and without shin or foot protection. To be fair the pace was strong and high and the experiment certainly proved popular with the capacity crowd. Schewe had huge kicks but was unable to deal with Bee's punch combinations followed by kicks. It was basic but very strong and like Orchard she moved to a shut out victory, showing the doubters that she is still The Queen Bee!



  3. IAB Professional Boxing: Cruiserweight
    Sam Morrison (Bournemouth, England, 5-0 Junior: 6-2, 81.8kg, 6'1", 12-18-84, Mark Plunkett, 00447867414451)
    VS Danny Zuco (Rotherham, England, 18-12-3, 79.8kg, 5'10", 6-29-86, Bridie Murphy, 00447779784760)
    WINNER: Sam Morrison by unanimous decision 40-36, 40-36 & 40-36.

  4. IKF Pro K1 Southern Area Light Heavyweight Title
    Fred Harrington (Bournemouth, England, 8-1, 81.0kg, 6', 10-30-86, Jimmy Johnstone, 00447545568778)
    VS Tom Lawson (Dorchester, England, Pro: 5-0 Am: 3-3, 78.6kg, 5'11", 9-29-90, Keith Adams, 00447929133607)
    WINNER: Tom Lawson by unanimous decision 49-47, 49-46 & 50-47.
    Congratulations to Tom Lawson who captured his first title, defeating the previously unbeaten Fred Harringtion. This was a gruelling affair with both men exchanging bombs. The kicking was a little sparse at times but in the end it was Lawsons work rate that secured him the victory.




AMATEUR FIGHT CARD


  1. IAB Amateur Super Heavyweight
    Paul Meyer (Bournemouth, England, 1-1, 105.7kg, 6.2", 3-28-67, John Orchard, 00447834286085)
    VS Ross Dunham (Weymouth, England, 0-3, 121.kg, 6', 8-30-78, 00447939584113)
    WINNER: Paul Meyer by RSF 1:58 round 1.
    Ross Dunham receives medical suspension until 4th December 2012.

  2. IAB Amateur Super Welterweight
    Lee Stubbs (Bournemouth, England, 3-1, 68.7kg, 5'7", 6-23-88, John Orchard, 00447834286085)
    VS Lucus Hales (Bournemouth, England, 1-1, 67.kg, 5'9", 12-12-87, Ross Phillips, 00447970015878)
    WINNER: Lee Stubbs by unanimous decision 30-27 30-27 30-27.

  3. IAB Amateur Super Cruiserweight
    Adam Urban (Bournemouth, England, 0-3, 90.2kg, 5'9", 2-26-79, John Orchard, 00447834286085)
    VS Paul Williams (Bournemouth, England, 4-1-1, 88.1kg, 6', 6-10-86, Ross Phillips, 00447920015878 )
    WINNER: Paul Williams by unanimous decision 30-28 30-28 30-28.

  4. IAB Amateur Super Cruiserweight
    Russell Parsons (Bournemouth, England, 0-2, 89.3kg, 5'8", 3-14-66, John Orchard, 00447834286085)
    VS Aaron Garner (Southampton, England, 1-0, 87.1kg, 6'3", 5-15-83, Gez Marchment, 07920797239)
    WINNER: Aaron Garner by unanimous decision 30-27 30-27 30-27.

  5. IAB Amateur Super Cruiserweight
    Joe Gormley (Bournemouth, England, 1-0, 88.9kg, 5'11", 11-14-78, John Orchard, 00447834286085)
    VS Adam Newman (Bournemouth, England, 0-1, 93.7kg, 6'3", 5-17-90, John Whittam, 00447506679670)
    WINNER: Joe Gormley by unanimous decision 30-27 30-27 30-27.

  6. IAB Amateur Super Welterweight
    Tom Chubb (Bournemouth, England, 0-1, 70.kg, 5'10", 10-9-89, Mark Plunkett, 00447867414451)
    VS Adam Nicholls (Swansea, Wales, 1-1, 69.6kg, 5'9", 10-26-87, James Wallis, 00447837030084 )
    WINNER: Adam Nicholls by unanimous decision 30-27 30-27 30-27.

  7. IKF Amateur Light Middleweight
    John Whittam (Bournemouth, England, 13-1-1, 72.4kg, 6'1", 5-16-86, John Orchard, 00447834286085)
    VS Christopher Pouvin (Ibismes, France, 17-4-1, 71.6kg, 5.7", 6-5-92, Omar Agoulzi, 0033652113194)
    WINNER: Draw 49-49 49-46 48-49.

  8. IKF Amateur Super -Welterweight
    Mark Laycock (Bournemouth, England, 1-1, 67.3kg, 5.10", 12-16-80, Ross Phillips, 00447920015878)
    VS Juris Poskus (Bridgwater, England, 3-2, 66.9kg, 5'9", 10-7-86, Arthur Meek, 00447765042414)
    WINNER: Juris Poskus unanimous decision 30-27 30-28 30-28.

  9. IKF Amateur Super Lightweight
    Jo Hdgkinson (Christchurch, England, 1-1, 62.kg, 5'10", 4-28-88, Ross Phillips, 00447920015878)
    VS Sasha Anthony (Bridgwater, England, 1-1, 62.6kg, 5'4", 7-3-92, Arthur Meek, 00447765042414)
    WINNER: Jo Hodgkinson by unanimous decision 30-27 30-26 30-26.

  10. IKF Amateur Featherweight
    Joshua Hynes (Swansea, Wales, 1-1, 55.6kg, 5'4", 7-20-93, James Wallis, 00447837030084)
    VS Jake Clarke (Poole, England, 3-1, 57.kg, 5'10", 8-25-94, Phil Norman, 00447773677580)
    WINNER: Jake Clarke by unanimous decision 30-26 30-26 30-26.

  11. ISCF Amateur MMA Middleweight
    Alex Thorne (Bournemouth, England, 5-1, 83.4kg, 6'2", 5-01-90, Jimmy Johnstone, 00447545568778)
    VS Adam Fyfe (Portsmouth, England, 4-4, 84.5kg, 5'11", 2-25-85, Adam Fieldhouse, 0044798653960)
    WINNER: Alex Thorne by KO at :29 seconds of round 1.
    Alex Thorne receives medical suspension until 19th December 2012.

  12. ISCF Amateur Middleweight
    Xavier Sedras (Cape Town, South Africa, 4-0, 77.9kg, 5'11", 12-31-90, Phil Norman, 00447773677580)
    VS Matt Blandford (Southampton, England, 2-1, 78.5kg, 5'11", 1-20-86, Adam Fieldhouse, 0044798653960)
    WINNER: Xavier Sedras by G&P 1:47 round 1.
    Matt Blandford receives medical suspension until 4th December 2012.



FRIDAY, October 26th, 2012, AT 11:25 AM/ PST



We ALL Lose A GREAT ONE!


Famed Trainer
Emanuel Steward Dies
From espn.go.com

Emanuel Steward, revered as one of the best trainers in boxing history and whose Kronk Gym symbolized Detroit's gritty, blue-collar boxing scene and produced numerous world champions, died Thursday after a short illness (ADDED: Steward had been in a Chicago-area hospital for several weeks after undergoing surgery for what was termed diverticulitis, died October 25 at 2:46 p.m. Detroit time - from his sister, Steward-Jones said. ). He was 68.

Steward, who also managed many of the fighters he trained, worked with more than two dozen champions during his decades-long career. A younger generation of boxing fans knew him as an expert analyst on HBO's boxing telecasts.

Victoria Kirton, Steward's executive assistant, told The Associated Press that Steward died in a Chicago hospital Thursday afternoon.

Often called the Godfather of Detroit boxing, Steward was a beloved figure because of his outgoing personality, seemingly endless energy to talk about boxing with anyone who would approach him and his dedication to his fighters. As a cornerman, he commanded respect because of his strategic genius and for having the knack of saying the right thing at the right time during the heat of battle.

Fighters also loved him for his generosity and for the father-figure role he often played in their lives. Training fighters was not just a job for Steward. He often took fighters in to live with him in his Detroit home, training them by day and parenting them by night.

Steward was most closely identified with his work with three superstar fighters: multi-divisional world champion Thomas Hearns, who was with Steward from the beginning; former heavyweight champion Lennox Lewis; and reigning heavyweight champion Wladimir Klitschko.



"He brought the very, very best out of me," Hearns once said of his trainer.

Steward kept his usual busy schedule through the summer, training middleweight contender Andy Lee -- who lived with Steward -- for his loss to Julio Cesar Chavez Jr. on June 16, and Klitschko for his title-retaining sixth-round knockout win against Tony Thompson in their July 7 rematch. But he had been hospitalized since September, causing him to miss two HBO broadcasts, and underwent surgery. His sister, Diane Steward Jones, said the surgery was for the stomach disorder diverticulitis, although many others who knew Steward said it was for advanced cancer.

"There are no adequate words to describe the enormous degree of sadness and loss we feel at HBO Sports with the tragic passing of Manny Steward," HBO Sports president Ken Hershman said. "For more than a decade, Manny was a respected colleague who taught us so much not only about the sweet science but also about friendship and loyalty. His energy, enthusiasm and bright smile were a constant presence. Ten bells do not seem enough to mourn his passing. His contributions to the sport and to HBO will never be forgotten. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family."

Born in West Virginia on July 7, 1944, Steward became interested in boxing at age 8 after he was given a pair of boxing gloves. When he was 12, he moved with his mother to Detroit and began training at Brewster's Gym, the famed gym that produced the great Joe Louis.

"I will miss our time together.
The long talks about boxing,
the world, and life itself.
Most of all I will miss our friendship.
Rest in peace Emanuel.
You will be greatly missed."
Wladimir Klitschko

As an amateur fighter, Steward compiled a 94-3 record and won a 1963 National Golden Gloves title as a bantamweight. But his calling was as a trainer, not as a fighter.

Although Steward was schooled as an electrician, he began coaching amateur fighters as a part-time coach in 1971 at the Kronk Gym, which he helped transform from the basement of a community center into a breeding ground for professional champions, who would walk to the ring wearing the unmistakable red and gold Kronk colors. In 1977, he led one of those amateurs into the pro ranks. It was Hearns, who became a star and with whom Steward found fame and glory.

"With the loss of Emanuel Steward, we have lost a true Detroit icon," Detroit Mayor Dave Bing said. "Emanuel Steward embodied our city's toughness, our competitive spirit, and our determination to always answer the bell. We are grateful for Emanuel Steward's many contributions to our city and his impact on generations of young people."

There were other important fighters, too, under Steward's tutelage, including Hilmer Kenty, who became Steward's first professional champion in March 1980 when he won a lightweight world title by stopping Ernesto Espana in the ninth round at Joe Louis Arena in downtown Detroit.

Five months later, Hearns destroyed Pipino Cuevas in two rounds to win a welterweight title. For the next 30-plus years, Steward had a constant stable of champions, some of whom he was with from the early days of their careers and some more established fighters who sought him out because of his reputation. Other champions he trained at one time or another included Mike McCallum, Jimmy Paul, Michael Moorer, Dennis Andries, Milton McCrory, Duane Thomas, Gerald McClellan, Evander Holyfield, Oliver McCall, John David Jackson, Julio Cesar Chavez Sr., Oscar De La Hoya, Naseem Hamed, Jermain Taylor, Chad Dawson, Miguel Cotto, and Cornelius "K9" Bundrage.

"Emanuel thank you for giving it all for our sport and for giving me your great advice. We enjoyed those days! You will always be in my mind," Cotto tweeted.

Steward trained McCall when he knocked out Lewis to win a heavyweight title in 1994 in a huge upset and then took over Lewis' corner in 1995. He was in Lewis' corner when he stopped McCall in their 1997 rematch to regain the title. Steward and Lewis went 16-1-1 together before Lewis retired as champion in 2004, but they remained close.

"I'm completely devastated by the passing of my long time friend, mentor and trainer Emanuel 'Manny' Steward," Lewis said in a statement. "Manny has helped me get through some of the biggest fights in my career and I only regret that I couldn't return the favor and see him through his biggest fight.

"We've maintained a close relationship and the last time we spoke he seemed his usual upbeat self so it was very disturbing to hear about his illness and rapid decline. It is with a heavy heart that realization of what I hoped were just rumors are now in fact true. Manny always told me I was the best, but the truth is, he was the best and I'm grateful, privileged and honored to be counted among his many historic successes. ... We've truly lost one of (boxing's) crown jewels. Manny was giving, selfless, compassionate and stern. He always gave back to the community and never forgot where he came from. He was an institution unto himself and I'm proud to have had him in my corner for so many years.

"I'm extremely grateful for the time that I was given with him and he will be severely missed by all who knew and loved him. I'll miss his smile, his frank no-holds-barred truthfulness and our discussions on boxing and life. My prayers and condolences go out to his family at this very difficult time."

Klitschko, who is training in Austria for a Nov. 10 title defense against Mariusz Wach, knew the gravity of Steward's illness and was forced this week to announce a replacement for Steward for the fight, tapping Steward disciple and pro heavyweight Johnathon Banks, a Kronk Gym product.

"(My brother) Vitali and I, along with the entire Team Klitschko, send our deepest and most heartfelt condolences to Emanuel's family and friends," Wladimir Klitschko said in a statement. "It is not often that a person in any line of work gets a chance to work with a legend. Well I was privileged enough to work with one for almost a decade."

Steward began working with Klitschko in 2004, and their first fight resulted in a knockout loss to Lamon Brewster. But under Steward's steady hand, Klitschko rebuilt himself into a heavyweight force and one of the most dominant heavyweight champions in history.










Steward got a lot of the credit for helping Klitschko mentally as much as he did for training him physically. Klitschko and Steward shared a close bond that went deeper than simply trainer and fighter.

"I will miss our time together," Klitschko said. "The long talks about boxing, the world, and life itself. Most of all I will miss our friendship. Rest in peace Emanuel. You will be greatly missed.

"My team and I will carry on with the goals we had set while Emanuel was with us because that is exactly what Emanuel would have wanted. I know he will be with us in spirit along the way and we will accomplish these goals in his honor. Until we meet again my friend."

Steward trained then-welterweight champion De La Hoya in 1997.

"It brings me great grief and sadness to hear of the passing of one of the best and most respected trainers of this era, Emanuel Steward," De La Hoya said. "I learned a lot from him during our professional relationship and I will be forever grateful for his help during that time. We were also friends and I know I am going to miss him as so many others will too. He was an important part of our boxing community."

Top Rank promoter Bob Arum had been a friend of Steward's since the 1980s and promoted many of the fights involving the fighters he trained.

"We are all grieving the passing of our friend Emanuel Steward," Arum said. "His founding and leadership of the Kronk Gym in Detroit was outstanding. His efforts produced many world class fighters and champions including Tommy Hearns, Milt McCrory, Michael Moorer and many more. Emanuel Steward always stood for the best that boxing could offer. He will be missed by all of us."

Although Steward was part of many big wins, he had his share of hurtful defeats. None stung him more than when Hearns was knocked out in the 14th round by Sugar Ray Leonard in the memorable 1981 welterweight championship fight. Steward said it was the most painful experience of his life, boxing or otherwise. He was also hurt by the third-round knockout loss Hearns suffered against Marvelous Marvin Hagler challenging for the middleweight title in their all-time great 1985 showdown.

Steward was inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame in 1996.

"Without a doubt, Emanuel Steward was one of the most accomplished and respected trainers in the history of boxing," said Ed Brophy, executive director of the Canastota, N.Y., shrine. "He was a great ambassador for the sport, always promoting boxing wherever he traveled. The Hall of Fame joins the worldwide boxing world in mourning the passing of a legend."

Brophy said the flags at the Hall of Fame would fly at half-staff in his memory. Steward was named trainer of the year by the Boxing Writers Association of America in 1993 and 1997. The BWAA voted him manager of the year in 1980 and 1989.





THURSDAY, October 25th, 2012, AT 9:00 PM/ PST


USA Boxing Back In Business
By Stephen Johnson - Posted At Inside Boxing.com


The pleas of USA Boxing President Dr. Charles Butler, who has the respect of most world-wide in amateur boxing, have helped Dr. C.K. Wu (AIBA President) and Mr. Ho Kim (AIBA Executive Director) re-think the catastrophic earlier decision made by the AIBA Disciplinary Committee and have taken USA Boxing off of the '90 days suspended' list.

This decision keeps many shows around the country scheduled for this weekend on course, a new breath of life saving the USA Boxing organization from disaster had the cancellation of sanctioned events been enforced.

If there were any doubting the respect world-wide Dr. Butler has earned, this decision reversal by a stern AIBA Disciplinary Committee should squash any of those lingering concerns

Read the AIBA decision reversal letter here…

While the 34 LBC Presidents who voted FOR Hal Adonis to remain a member of the USA Boxing Board of Directors now have time to re-think their previous decision, do not underestimate the long arm of 'good old boy' networking that remains prevalent in amateur boxing to go away quietly in the night.

The 17 LBC Presidents who voted for Hal Adonis to be booted from the USA Boxing Board of Directors, this is no time to 'thump your chests' if you have been reluctant to come forward before the decision reversal was made.

Insideboxing.com offered anY/all LBC Presidents nationwide to come forward and state their reasoning for whatever voting avenue they chose, a few quality folks willing to readily stste their case with no reservations.

For AIBA, today showed their own benevolence in understanding the impact their earlier decison would have on amateur boxing here in these United States.

For Dr. Charles Butler and Anthony Bartkowski, today should open the door to a new beginning, one where the path to having an organization free of self-centered, closet discriminating, only concerned with themselves members who have wormed their way into positions of prominence, can operate.

As is fairly obvious to most anyone, Dr. Butler called in every favor imaginable to get the 90 day suspension overturned, him proving in a big way he fully supports and is committed to USA amateur boxing, their coaches, boxers and members.

There remain the few loyal supporters of Hal Adonis who should resign and follow their disgraced leader into retirement, but Reggie Winston, Joe Zanders, Ron Simms, Kymberli Stowe and Gary Pliner won't 'do the right thing' and resign, they'll hang around and pretend they are on board with the new leadership, waiting for any opportunity to slide in the back door of USA Boxing and gain control.

That happens and the USOC, AIBA and everyone else will have every right to intervene.

As the LBC Presidents nationwide have dodged (for the moment) a bullet that had life threatening potential, the same capabilities hang in the balance with the above named individuals remaining a cancer that needs to be removed.

For now LIFE IS GOOD in USA Boxing, the light at the end of the tunnel having gotten a helluva lot brighter than it was a mere 24 hours ago.

Stephen Johnson is the Denver Boxing Examiner.



TO ADD
The action today however has had quite an effect on several Boxing Commissions as more negative issues surrounding USA Boxing. Needless to say, the IAB will soon be sanctioning Amateur Boxing in the USA even more now, and the future of USA Boxing's approval is still a lingering question... As the IAB was told, "You can only take so much negative drama, and the time has come to speak up..."




EARLIER NEWS TODAY...




POSTED AT 11:00 AM/ PST


Does The USA Boxing Suspension
Open The Door For The
IAB - International Amateur Boxing?


As one may expect, the announcement yesterday of the nationwide USA Boxing suspension has made a lot of waves. Since yesterday afternoon, the IAB phones have been ringing off the hook with Amateur Boxing people asking "What can the IAB do for us?" The answer to this question will be different in every state because every state has their own rules and regulations when it comes to regulating Amateur Boxing. Our first advice to those who have been calling or plan to call is to contact your State Athletic or Boxing Commission and ask them if the IAB can sanction/regulate your amateur boxing event. Once you have your answer from them, you can decide your next step.

Most states have USA Boxing written into their laws as the only regulatory body allowed to sanction/regulate amateur boxing. This was done many years ago to separate Amateur Boxing from state control. How it was possible comes down to money and power and since amateur boxing is a part of the Olympic Games, you can see where both came from to get USA Boxing the power to have this done.

Within a matter of days after International Fight Sports launched the IAB, USA Boxing and it's followers were going on the defensive to try and shut it down. At the time and even more so today, USA Boxing was in the middle of some major financial and ethical turmoil and when you have your back against the wall, sometimes the best thing to do is to try and change the subject.

However the original goal of the IAB was no different than the original goal of the IKF (International Kickboxing Federation) or the ISCF (International Sport Combat Federation) which was to organize Kickboxing as well as later, MMA with rules, regulations, rankings and legit title fight opportunities, something USA Boxing just never did. The biggest push for the IAB was from the many IKF and ISCF Promoters worldwide that wanted to work with a boxing sanctioning body that wasn't caught up in what many were calling the "Bowl of Alphabet soup and corruption." IAB had no ties with big time Boxing promoters but what the IAB did have was a SOLID track record of fair sanctioning, safe regulating and a desire to bring attention to the Amateur Fighters who build the foundation of any sport...

The IAB was for IKF and ISCF Promoters who wanted to add credible amateur boxing and amateur boxing titles to their events. They had a lot of amateur boxers who had no desire to join USA Boxing because they could care less about going to the Olympics, they just wanted to box as an amateur and maybe get the opportunity to win an amateur boxing title like the IKF and ISCF offers for fighters.

In 2011 the ABC (Association of Boxing Commissions) held their annual meeting in Washington DC. One of the highly discussed topics was the lack of ethics and foul play by USA Boxing and many associated with them from fighters (Who wanted to be paid for fighting, but still wanted to keep their amateur status) to trainers and event promoters. What was thought to be a short discussion turned into a major one as state after state spoke up negatively about USA Boxing asking for an alternative.

The last 24 hours have changed a lot of thinking here at the IAB offices. The IAB still has no desire to take USA Boxing's position... However, there is an addition to this statement now... "Unless we have the support of the State Boxing Commissions of the states where we get a request from, who want us to step in as interim regulators of Amateur Boxing until USA Boxing gets it's house back in order." said IAB commissioner Steve Fossum.

However according to sources who have spoke to the IAB, what seems like a few months suspension could actually turn into a year or more. Apparently there is a lot to clean up and the reason for this suspension was just the straw that happened to break the camel's back per say. It seems USA Boxing had been teetering on the edge for the past several years and it took an action by AIBA to finally get the USOC to move forward with their support of the suspension...

As many already know, the IAB would be more than capable as interim regulators for amateur boxing to fill the void and keep Amateur Boxers busy until the USA Boxing suspension is over, whenever that may be. To add, as one commissioner put it, it would give those in charge a chance to see how the IAB operates and if they could, if presented the offer, take over amateur boxing in the USA.

Here are the details of what finally brought USA Boxing to a halt here in the USA.
As previously noted, this was not the only issue as there were many others leading up to this.



__________________________________




This suspension (To the Public that is) focus around comments made by Hal Adonis (Right) which were the stated reason why USA Boxing got suspended by AIBA effectively October 19, 2012 for 3 months.

The AIBA handed down a three month suspension to USA Boxing today, effectively ending all sanctioned amateur competition until mid-January.



The situation revolves around statements made by former president of USA Boxing and current board member Hal Adonis. Adonis previously made offensive comments to the New Yorker magazine that

"homosexuality runs rampant in female boxing and also included statements that boxers are more likely to succeed in the sport if they were abused as children."

AIBA contacted USA Boxing and told them to resolve the issue and remove Adonis from the board for defaming the AIBA, the sport of boxing, doing harm to minority groups in the sport..etc. While USA Boxing did remove Hal from his role as president, he was not removed from the board entirely, as explained in a communication sent out by the group: After Mr. Adonis made the alleged statements, the Board of USA Boxing voted to remove Mr. Adonis as President and Chairman of the Board. Colorado law requires that removal from the Board of USA Boxing requires a majority vote of the voting electors who placed Mr. Adonis on the board. Accordingly, the Board of Directors requested a vote of the 72 electors to remove Mr. Adonis from the board. Fifty-one (51) of the 72 voting members responded. The majority of the 51 voting members cast their ballots to retain Mr. Adonis as a board member. For this reason, USA Boxing is charged as equally guilty in these violations of the Olympic principles, AIBA Articles, the Rules of USA Boxing and code of ethics of USA Boxing.

On September 27, 2012 USA Boxing received a letter from the USOC threatening decertification of USA Boxing if immediate agreement to a change of governance were not met. This letter included a timeline within which USA Boxing must meet the required change of governance or face dissolution. The letter from the USOC was several pages long and contained a laundry list of the past failings and mistakes of USA Boxing. In addition to the abbreviated list of our failings, this letter contained the names of two members of our organization, Mr. Hal Adonis and Mr. Gary Pliner who were each specifically cited as partial cause for this decertification notice.

The demands of the USOC to avoid immediate decertification included immediate acceptance of a mutually agreed-upon Advisory Committee which would oversee the actions of USA Boxing, acceptance of a "Transitional Board" as of December 31, 2012, and the "new governance" which would be acceptable to the USOC and AIBA, and which would be put forward for mutual agreement by June 1, 2013. The service of the Transitional Board will terminate and the new governance takeover January 1, 2014.

That was followed with tonight's communication explaining that the program had been suspended:
USA Boxing just received notification from AIBA, the international federation for boxing, that all amateur boxing activities in the United States are immediately suspended. The suspension cancels all sanctioned competitions; coach and official clinics; boxing club activities; membership registrations; and insurance coverage.

USA Boxing and our insurance companies will not take any insurance claims until the AIBA suspension is remedied and/or served until January 19, 2013. The AIBA Disciplinary Commission levied this suspension against the organization for inappropriate and improper statements made by Mr. Hal Adonis earlier this year.

The AIBA Disciplinary Commission Decision of October 19, 2012 states:

"By failing to remove Mr. Adonis from the USA Boxing Board of Directors when it had the chance to do so, USA Boxing, in essence, endorsed Mr. Adonis' statements and sent out a message that such behavior was acceptable. The action (or lack thereof) and the very serious and harmful nature of Mr. Adonis statements, has jeopardized boxing and the Panel finds it appropriate to impose a suspension upon USA Boxing. This suspension must reflect the severity of the offence."

The AIBA suspension terms are:

  1. USA Boxing shall be fully suspended for a period of 3 months from October 19, 2012.

  2. Mr. Adonis shall pay a fine of CHF 2,000 and be suspended from all boxing activities at national and international levels, for 2 years starting from October 19, 2012.

  3. The costs of the proceedings, fixed at CHF 1,500, shall be borne equally between USA Boxing and Mr. Adonis.

  4. The decision will be communicated to USA Boxing, Mr. Adonis (via Hollie L Wieland of Karp Neu Hanlon Attorneys) and to the Headquarters of AIBA.

This is the initial notification. It is unclear if further conditions or demands will follow. We are waiting on further details from AIBA. Your President; Board of Directors; and Executive Director are working diligently to determine any further demands of this suspension and to see if USA Boxing can offer any remedies to shorten it. In the event that we are successful in shortening or lessening our penalties, USA Boxing will notify you immediately to let you know your sanctioned event can take place. Please assist in communicating this information to your constituents as soon as possible. We will continue to update you on the status of this suspension as necessary. In the meantime, USA Boxing and the Board of Directors are taking every measure available to ensure that amateur boxing is resumed as soon as possible.
________________________________



Emphasis mine. Of course, this wasn't the only thing Adonis did recently that was inexcusable. Including this horrible display (via Examiner.com): ...this Hal Adonis 'situation' began last year when Inside Boxing.com became aware of the death of Marine Corporal Libardo Anthony Jimenez, Jr. who died on March 23, 2010, following an unusually rigorous training session under the guidance of Ron Simms, then Head Boxing Coach of the All-Marines Boxing Team who was later terminated by the U.S. Marine Corps following their own internal investigation deeming him 'unfit to coach'.

The arrogance and pompous attitudes of Hal Adonis, Joe Zanders, and Rons Simms who all refused to apologize to Mrs. Penny Palmer (mother of Jimenez, Jr.) and the deceased Marines' family was and remains an unforgivable offense.

In another blatant show of their viewed superiority, Adonis and then 2012 USA Olympic Boxing Head Coach Zanders unbelievably appointed Ron Simms an assistant coach on that staff to the dismay of U.S. Marines around the world.

The USOC stepped in and not only dismissed Ron Simms from the team, but Zanders as well, with Adonis left fuming and more defiant than ever.

Adonis also failed to name an Olympic coaching staff more than 100 days before this past summer's games. Another violation of his position.

What is most unfortunate here is who is hurt. It's about the kids and young adults who rely on the USA Boxing amateur program. The AIBA showed themselves to be well outside of anything close to "in control" of the sport during these Olympic games with a seemingly endless line of controversy. USA Boxing is a program that is a mess to begin with and the fact that board members would vote to retain Adonis in this situation is mindblowing.

And because of everyone higher up the food chain, it'll be three months where kids who don't make any decisions are the ones who suffer.




____________________________


IAB hopes to keep Amateur Boxing alive here in the USA, but it will be in the hands of each State Boxing/Athletic Commission to give them the green light to do so. The door is open and the opportunity for all is there... Now lets see who will be allowed to walk through it...






SUNDAY, March 24th, 2012, AT 1:30 AM/ AUSTRALIAN TIME



Results From Thunderlegs Promotions'
"THUNDER DOWN UNDER WWIII"
March 24th, 2012 - Robina (Gold Coast) Queensland, Australia




  1. IAB AMATEUR BOXING
    Quintin Caiey, (Mt. Talampa, QLD, Australia)
    defeated Michael Lawlor (Inveeal, NSW, Australia) by unanimous decision, 30-27, 30-27 & 28-27.

  2. IAB AMATEUR BOXING
    Darcy Nortin (Brisbane, QLD, Australia)
    defeated Drew Robinson (QLD, Australia) by split decision, 29-28, 30-29 & 28-30.

  3. IAB AMATEUR BOXING
    Peter Lancashire (Brisbane, QLD, Australia)
    defeated Joey Evans (Ipswich, QLD, Australia) by unanimous decision, 30-25, 30-27 & 30-24.


  4. IKF AMATEUR MODIFIED MUAY THAI RULES
    AUSTRALIAN LIGHT MIDDLEWEIGHT TITLE
    5 x 2 Minute Rounds
    Corey Sullivan (Mackay, QLD, Australia, 6-3, 71.2, 6'1", 9-7-86, June Vergara, 044 818 7040)
    defeated Ozan Ulker (Glenroy, Melbourne, Australia, 10-4, 71.3, 5'9", 7-12-76, Self, +61 405426746) by TKO at end of round 3.
    Corey Sullivan is the new IKF Amateur Modified Muay Thai Rules Australian Light Middleweight Champion.
  5. IAB AMATEUR AUSTRALIAN
    MIDDLEWEIGHT BOXING TITLE
    Darren Finn (Inverell, NSW, Australia, AB: 19-2, KB: 13-1)
    defeated Evan Stewart (Kempsey, NSW, Australia, 16-3) by unanimous decision, 50-44, 50-45 & 49-42.
    Darren Finn is the new IAB Amateur Australian Middleweight Boxing Champion.

  6. IKF INTERCONTINENTAL
    FULL CONTACT RULES WELTERWEIGHT TITLE
    Jarkko Jusilla (Vaasa, Finland, 50-20-1/15, 66.3, 6-28-79, Kristian Santikko, 358 44 550 4352)
    had already won his title on the scales when first opponent Ntokozo Mgwaba of Durban, KZN, South Africa failed to pass his Visa out of South Africa. However, having travelled approximately 40 hours from Finland, Jusilla still wanted to fight. So a potential substitute, Shannon Forrester of Cairns, QLD, Australia, (68-18-2/22) stepped in. However Forrester weighed in 9 kilos heavier than Jusilla. The spread was outside of the allowed weight spread, so the two did a 3 round exhibition.
    Jarkko Jusilla of Vaasa, Finland is the new IKF Full Contact Rules Intercontinental Welterweight Champion.

  7. IKF AMATEUR FULL MUAY THAI RULES
    LIGHT HEAVYWEIGHT WORLD TITLE
    Davor Matarugic (Auckland, New Zealand, 24-3-1/11, 80.6, 6'3", 10-19-88, Eddy Lee, 0275 811447)
    defeated Jarrod Mellor (Cairma, QLD, Australia, KB: 5-3, AB: 8-5, 80.7, 1.86cm, 6-3-89, Shannon Forister, 0422849551) by Knockout at 1:56 of round 3.
    Davor Matarugic is the new IKF Amateur Full Muay Thai Rules Light Heavyweight World Champion.
  8. IKF PRO INTERNATIONAL RULES
    HEAVYWEIGHT WORLD TITLE
    Mike Sheppard (Elizabeth, WV, USA, 23-10-1/17, PB: 20-13-1/9, 97.2, 6'2", 5-25-75, Leon Ramsey, (304) 871-6080)
    defeated Robert Wilesmith (Liverpool, NSW, Australia, 15-1/14, 96.2, 6'2", 3-19-65, Deane Lawler, 045 114 0770) by TKO at 1:33 of round 3.
    Mike Sheppard is the new IKF Pro International Rules Heavyweight World Champion.

SHEPPARD VS WILESMITH - BOUT RECAP
Photos by Matt Roberts/Getty Images AsiaPac
This was the nights main event which matched up USA's Mike "Lightning" Sheppard (22-10-1/16) against Robert "Thunderlegs" Wilesmith (15-0) of Australia. This bout had a lot of hype and drama leading up to it so the question was, "Would the bout be bigger than the hype?"

While many knew who Mike Sheppard was, (Current IKF FCR World Champion & Pro Boxer) there was little if anything known about the Robert Wilesmith and this is where the drama rose up. There were a series of circumstances that lead up to this bout (Click Here To Read Them...) with emotions and passion spilling in from all angles. Wilesmith had stated an amateur record of 15-0 and a pro record of 15-0 with 14 KO/TKOs. Although there were questions surrounding proof of his previous bouts claiming the undefeated combined pro and amateur record of 30-0, Sheppard didn't care. He simply trained as he would have for any other opponent coming into the ring claiming a 30-0 record. This being said, to put it straight out there, both fighters had trained for a strong World Title bout.

Round one started slow, as we all thought it would. Sheppard wanted to see what kind of "Thunderlegs" Wilesmith had in his leg kicks he kept hearing Robert talk about and Wilesmith wanted to see what kind of "Lightning" Sheppard had in his punching since Sheppard is also a pro boxer. However neither fighter showed the other anything in round one that would send any kind of a message. Sheppard landed some head and body shots while Wilesmith got in a few jabs but not one strong landing leg kick. Towards the end of the round though the two clashed heads, which after the bout created some surprising stories in the Australian Press. Wilesmith would admit to others both in the ring and over the next two days that he had brought his head down and forward just like he did when he played Rugby Football. But he was surprised when the one who got cut was him.

Clearly the headbutt was caused when Wilesmith's head leaned into Sheppard, however, days after the bout, Wilesmith had a different memory of the moment when giving an interview to the Australian media. "We clashed heads," Glasson-Wilesmith explained. "There was a bit of controversy. I was watching the video and it looks like he did it intentionally." Well, to begin with, Wilesmith is right on one account, it did look like he did it intentionally, but the "HE" was Wilesmith, NOT Mike Sheppard. We here as eye witnesses of this bout were pretty shocked to read this on the internet. Although an uneventful round, as the round came to an end, there was no question as to who won it. If not for the inexperience of one of the Australian judges, Sheppard would have won round 1 on all 3 judges cards, 10-9. However, one of the Australian judges gave round 1 to Wilesmith, despite him only landing a few jabs.

As round 2 started, Wielsmith's corner had stopped his head from bleeding so the fight was on again. However, as this round started, Sheppard realized he wasn't afraid of any "Thunderlegs" so he came out strong. Sheppard rocked Wilesmith with body shots and left - right combinations along with several kicks including a good head kick. To his credit, Wielsmith proved one thing, that he had a hard head. As the round was closing out, Sheppard landed some bombs on Wilesmith that rocked him. Instead of covering up as most fighters would to protect themselves, Wilesmith smiled at Sheppard and actually waved him to come again. Wilesmith wanted everyone to think that he was having no problem taking Sheppard's blows, yet in reality, it was just the jesters of a fighter who had no answer to his opponent's offense. Saying that Wilesmith weathered Sheppards storm is not a compliment of skill... Having a hard head is not a compliment of skill... However, it's what Wilesmith kept doing which seemed to be the only things keeping him in the fight. As the round came to a close, this time there was no question as all three judges saw this round easily 10-9 for Sheppard.

As round 3 started, Sheppard came out with no hesitation scoring punch after punch to Wilesmith's head and body. What many had hoped to be a tremendous fight quickly turned into a one sided frenzy. Sheppard was now landing shot after shot without any real resistance. Wilesmith would continue his only reply which was a smile back at Sheppard as if he wasn't hurt, but at ringside, the message was clear. From the corner prior to the round, Wilesmith was drained. Not only did he not have any answers to Sheppards attack, he had no gas to stand to weather Sheppards shots anymore. Sheppard charged several times as Wilesmith just turned his back to him. It was clear this bout was coming to an end soon.

An article on line after the bout made the comment "Thunderlegs once again proving why he has that nickname as he destroyed Sheppard's legs." However, we had to ask what fight the writer was watching because Wilesmith's legs were no concern to Sheppard in this fight. Even Wilesmith's corner wondered why he never even turned his hips into any of his kicks. Maybe it was inexperience in the ring or fear of Sheppard countering? Who knows. What we do know is Wilesmith didn't throw "1" strong landing leg kick on Sheppard all night, so to say Wilesmith "Destroyed" Sheppards legs comes from the eyes of a blind man.

As we past the 1 minute mark in round 3, Sheppard drove the bloodied and battered Wilesmith into his own corner. It was there that Wilesmith would turn his back again to try and escape Sheppard. After referee Dan Stell stopped Sheppard from his attack, the two squared up again. A few blows later and Wilesmith was leaning over. Sheppard could have very well landed several telling head shots, but almost as if he felt sorry for him, choose to go to the body instead to finish Wilesmith off. Finally Wilesmith went down. Stell started the count, but Wilesmith would not make the count. This long awaited bout was over and Elizabeth, West Virginia, USA's Mike Sheppard would win the IKF World Title by KO at 1:33 of round 3. Sheppard improved to 23-10-1 with 17 wins by stoppage while Wilesmith adds a loss to his record. A loss that will likely be his last kickboxing bout.

Let us make one thing very clear.
There is an article out on the internet (HERE) that has some comments such as "but the loss of blood form the head gash and a broken nose took its toll." Bloodloss had NOTHING to do with this bouts outcome. Sheppard simply beat Wilesmith down with shot after shot. Yes, Wilesmith was bleeding quite a bit, but to say the blood was "Gushing" is an over statement. We have seen a lot worse blood in some elbow cut Muay Thai fights for example.

Along with this comment, Wilesmith has made quotes such as, "If it wasn't for the head clash, I reckon I would have won." Well, not sure what bout he was thinking about because after round 2 started, we saw this bout only going one way, Sheppard's!

At age 47, Robert Glasson-Wilesmith got his shot. We will say that he "Walked the Walk" when he could have turned away. He took his criticism all the way to the ring. However, with comments like the ones we noted, we can only hope his ego does not overshadow his deserved pride. The only sad thing is how this bout is now being played out in the media with quotes from Wilesmith and writers who interviewed him saying, it was a "Tremendous fight" or an "Out right War" are far from the truth. This was no close bout. As we noted above, Saying that Wilesmith weathered Sheppards storm is not a compliment of skill... and having a hard head is not a compliment of skill... But it can keep you standing...

When Wilesmith quotes to a paper, "He hit me with his best and I kept going. He kicked me fair in the head and I laughed at him." although factual quotes, last we heard, taking shots are not ways to score points... If this were true, Ken Shamrock should have been declared the winner in his last bout with Tito Ortiz in the UFC (The Final Chapter).

If Wilesmith's goal along was to prove his toughness to his critics, well, he won that battle. However toughness and being a winner don't always fall into the same result. But if this was what he was looking for, Wilesmith can have that title of being "Tough!" The title of someone who could take a lickin and keep on tickin... At least for 3 rounds anyway...






SATURDAY, MARCH 24th, 2012, AT 2:30 PM/ AUSTRALIAN TIME



TONIGHT...



Thunderlegs Promotions Presents
"THUNDER DOWN UNDER WWIII"
Robina (Gold Coast) Queensland, Australia




IKF Pro International Rules Heavyweight World Title



Mike Sheppard
Glenville, West Virginia, USA
CURRENT IKF FCR WORLD CHAMPION
KB: 20-5-1/15, Pro Team: 2-1/2
Pro MMA: 2-1, Pro Boxing: 20-13-1/9, ABX: 42-3/31




VS


Robert Wilesmith
Brisbane, Queensland
Australia
15-0/14

For The Full Story Behind This Event & The Above Title Bout - "CLICK HERE"



AND...


UPDATED 3-24-12 AUSTRALIAN TIME
IKF PRO
Intercontinental Full Contact Rules "SUPER" Welterweight Title



Jarkko Jissila
Team Finland
10-1/2, 143




VS


Shannon 'F16' Forrester*
Cairns, QLD, Australia
68-18-2/22

(*) Ntokozo Mgwaba (Durban, KZN, South Africa) Failed to pass his Visa out of South Africa - Forrester stepped in the day of the event.


PLUS




IKF AMATEUR
FULL MUAY THAI RULES
Light Heavyweight World Title


"Deadly"
Davor Matarugic
Lee Gar Gym
Auckland, New Zealand
23-3-1/11
WKBF Super Middleweight
WMC Light Heavyweight




VS


*Jarrod Melor
F16 Gym
Queensland, Australia
5-2-2/1 AB: 12-1
(*) Special Consideration
As Contender
Replacement.



AND...


IKF AMATEUR
MODIFIED MUAY THAI RULES
Australian Light Middleweight Title
69.6 kg - 72.2 kg


Ozan Ulker'
Thunderlegs
Townsville, Queensland
Australia
TO BE CONFIRMED




VS


Cory Sullivan
Boxon Muaythai Gym
Mackay, Queensland
Australia
5-3/1



IAB BOXING TOO......


IAB AMATEUR
Australian Middleweight Boxing Title
70.1 kg - 72.72 kg


Darren "Ferocious" Finn
Inverell
N.S.W, Australia
AB: 16-3




VS


Evan "Bones" Stewart
Hills Gym
Kempsey, NSW, Australia
13-2







MONDAY, MARCH 5th, 2012, AT 1:50 PM/ PST


NEVER
Feel Nervous Before A Fight Again!



Click Here!

Wintensity is the first company to offer a unique training opportunity for competitive MMA fighters, Muay Thai Kickboxers, Jiu Jitsu practitioners, or any student of the martial arts, who wish to enhance their level of mental preparation for combat and performance under pressure. The Wintensity seminar will bring you information that is not being presented in any other format or "Fight Training" environment. Wintensity blends the science of understanding human brain function, techniques from the field of sports psychology, and the personal and professional experiences of the instructor, to create an educational experience that will forever transform the way martial arts practitioners view their training. This is truly the "Missing Piece" of the martial arts training puzzle.




THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 9th, 2012, AT 1:00 PM/ PST


Australia
Jumps On Board...




Since we launched the IAB has been growing tremendously... Exceeding any and all expectations. Not only have we been busy here in North America, but with events throughout the United Kingdom the IAB has become global in a flash. This coming March, Australia will host their first IAB National title. the opponents are yet to be confirmed but we will announce them here soon.



ON THE AMATEUR FRONT...
The IAB is currently finalizing their rules and regulation books to be sent to various USA State and Tribal Athletic and Boxing Commissions who have been more than eager to accept the IAB as an approved amateur boxing sanctioning body. Seems at last years Association of Boxing Conference in Washington DC, "MANY" spoke up about their displeasure of how USA Boxing has been operating. Commissions spent quite a bit of time expressing a laundry list of the many bad issues they were dealing with in their states. So much that many were also urging the IAB to challenge the acceptance of USA Boxing on the Olympic level. This was due to so many expressing their dislike of USA Boxing due to favoritism, matchmaking, regional tournament positions and many other things. According to most Commissions, USA Boxing is no longer a respected organization within the USA Boxing community. Members expressed that USA Boxing's actions bring big questions to their true fair ability to regulate Amateur Boxing in the USA. The biggest comments made was when several asked IAB associates at the meeting, "What would it take for the IAB Amateur division to get serious about taking over the leadership of Amateur Boxing in the USA?" The IAB's reply was the same as it has always been... "We have no goal of seeking such a position, but it's become a question we are asked several times a week now." The common reply has been, "Well, maybe it's time the USOC seek out another legitimate organization with some integrity... and you better be ready when we recommend the IAB!"

More on this as we move forward...








Past IAB News - Click Here





HOME - NEWS - EVENTS - RANKINGS - SANCTIONING - RULES & REGULATIONS - ABOUT IAB - WEIGHTS - LINKS - CONTACT