In a significant decision made during the 144th International Olympic Committee (IOC) Session held in Costa Navarino, Greece, boxing has officially been reinstated into the sports lineup for the Los Angeles 2028 Olympics. The announcement followed a thorough evaluation of governance and integrity standards conducted by the IOC Executive Board, which provisionally recognized World Boxing as the sport's governing body. This move resolves years of uncertainty surrounding boxing's future in the Olympics after its initial exclusion from the LA28 program due to governance concerns with its previous association.

The journey to reinstate boxing into the Olympic program was not straightforward. Initially removed from the Los Angeles 2028 schedule in 2022 because of issues linked to its former governing body, the International Boxing Association (IBA), the sport faced an uncertain fate. The situation worsened when the IOC withdrew its recognition of the IBA in June 2023. However, consensus gradually emerged around World Boxing, leading to its provisional acknowledgment by the IOC Executive Board on February 26. This endorsement paved the way for boxing's inclusion recommendation to the full IOC Session.

Thomas Bach, the President of the IOC, delivered a compelling speech advocating for boxing's return to the Olympic stage. His address emphasized the importance of ensuring robust governance structures within the sport to safeguard its integrity and uphold Olympic values. The session, occurring in Costa Navarino, Greece, marked a pivotal moment for boxing enthusiasts worldwide, signaling renewed hope for athletes aspiring to compete at the highest level.

Boxing holds a storied history within the modern Olympic Games, making its debut in 1904. Since then, it has consistently featured in every edition except for the Stockholm 1912 games. Its reintegration into the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics signifies not only a victory for the sport but also a testament to the efforts invested in reforming its administrative framework under the new leadership of World Boxing.

This landmark decision reaffirms the commitment of the IOC to maintaining a diverse and inclusive Olympic program. By welcoming boxing back into the fold, the organization underscores the importance of addressing governance challenges while preserving the rich traditions and competitive spirit that define the Olympic movement. Athletes and fans alike can now look forward to witnessing world-class boxing competitions once again on the Olympic stage in Los Angeles 2028.