Boxing may miss 2028 Olympics but hopes for reinstatement

Boxing, which has historically contributed significantly to the Philippines' Olympic success, faces potential exclusion from the 2028 Los Angeles Games but remains hopeful for reinstatement if World Boxing becomes an official international federation recognized by more than 50 countries.

World Boxing, established last year after the International Olympic Committee (IOC) removed the original governing body due to governance issues and controversies, currently has 37 members and is on track to meet the IOC's requirement in time for the LA Games.

Philippine Olympic Committee president Abraham 'Bambol' Tolentino expressed optimism during a recent interview that World Boxing will secure the necessary recognition, noting that it could still be included if reforms are implemented.

Tolentino also emphasized the need for a challenge and review system to improve judging integrity after repeated questions over judging in three-round bouts, such as Carlo Paalam's split decision loss in the Paris Olympics quarterfinals.

The POC is planning a longer pre-Olympic training camp of at least two months for athletes like Carlos Yulo, who won gold medals in gymnastics and benefited from world-class equipment and recovery methods in Paris.