DUBAI: As more than 400 boxers from 108 nations come together to assert themselves at the pinnacle of amateur boxing — their route to gold at the International Boxing Association World Championships and a record-breaking $8.32 million prize pool has been set. 

The two-week tournament at Dubai Tennis Stadium will run until Dec. 13.

The draw features standout amateur boxers including two-time Olympic Gold Medalist Hasanboy Dusmatov, two-time Olympic Gold Medalist Julio La Cruz, and Olympic Gold Medalist Abdumalik Khalokov.

Chris Roberts, CEO of IBA, said: “The draw is out and the stage is set for what promises to be one of the greatest world championships in history. Some of the biggest names in amateur boxing — Hasanboy Dusmatov, Abdumalik Khalokov, Loren Alfonso Dominguez, Saidjamshid Jafarov, Nurbek and Aibek Oralbay, and the legendary Julio La Cruz — now know exactly who stands between them and that life-changing gold medal. With over 92 national federations registered and a record $8.32-million prize fund on the line, we’re less than 24 hours away from a special moment in the history of amateur boxing.”

The official start to the championships was postponed by 24 hours in an executive decision by IBA President Umar Kremlev, ensuring full participation after visa delays impacted the arrival of delegations from Kyrgyzstan. 

Kremlev said: “At the press conference before the opening ceremony, we spoke about our ‘big family,’ fairness, and equal conditions for all participants. Today’s decision to adjust the tournament schedule is proof of that commitment. Since athletes from Kyrgyzstan experienced visa delays, we pushed the start of the championship back by half a day.

“Despite this, we have participation from 108 countries — clear evidence that the IBA continues to grow and move upward. Each world championship improves on the last, especially regarding athlete conditions. Here, every athlete competes under their own flag and anthem, without discrimination, and with full transparency guaranteed. All protests from coaches will be heard, and independent oversight is in place to ensure fairness in judging. The global boxing community has gathered here, united with the shared aim of creating ideal conditions for the athletes.”