World Boxing has officially launched a new Asian body, and India is set to play a pivotal role in its growth and development. This landmark move positions the Boxing Federation of India (BFI) as a leading force in the region, with India securing seven key positions in the newly-formed interim structure of the Asian boxing organization. Among the key appointments, Ajay Singh, the President of the BFI, has been named a board member, further solidifying India's influence in the sport on a global scale.
The new Asian body is seen as a critical step toward ensuring that boxing remains an Olympic sport, particularly with the upcoming LA 2028 Olympics on the horizon. India’s active participation in this new structure will be crucial in shaping the sport's future, both in Asia and globally. As part of the new organizational framework, Indian officials will hold prominent roles across all key commissions, ensuring a strong voice in decision-making processes and setting strategic directions for the development of boxing in the region.
Ajay Singh, who has been at the helm of BFI, expressed his pride in India's central role in this transformative initiative. “The creation of Asian Boxing marks a significant milestone for World Boxing, and it is a crucial step toward ensuring that boxing continues as a part of the Olympic Games in LA 2028 and beyond. India is proud to be at the heart of this initiative, actively contributing to securing boxing’s Olympic future. With strong representation across key commissions, India is strategically positioned to influence policies, drive the development of Indian boxing, and champion the sport's growth not only within the country but across Asia,” Singh remarked.
Other key figures from India are also integral to this new structure. Hemanta Kumar Kalita, the BFI Secretary General, will have a significant voice as part of the Olympic Commission, while Digvijay Singh, the BFI Treasurer, will serve on the Finance and Audit Committee. Their roles will be vital in driving India's interests and ensuring that the governance of boxing reflects the needs of athletes and the broader boxing community.
Another major announcement is the inclusion of Tokyo Olympic bronze medalist Lovlina Borgohain, who will join the newly formed Athlete Commission. As one of three members representing athletes, Borgohain is committed to advocating for the welfare and development of boxers. “It is an honour to represent India as a member of the Athletes' Commission in Asian Boxing,” said Borgohain. “This platform is vital for ensuring that athletes' voices are heard and prioritized in decision-making. My focus will be on advocating for better training infrastructure, fair opportunities, and support systems throughout Asia that empower boxers to excel on the global stage.”
The inclusion of Borgohain in the Athlete Commission adds an athlete's perspective to the decision-making processes within the Asian boxing body, ensuring that the needs of boxers are directly addressed. Borgohain's commitment to the growth of the sport and her advocacy for greater opportunities for athletes reflect India’s broader dedication to advancing boxing at both the regional and global levels.
Additionally, BFI Vice President (North Zone) Narender Kumar Nirwan will serve on the Constitution Commission, while BFI Disciplinary & Disputes Commission Chairman D P Bhatt has been appointed to the Sports and Competition Commission. Dr. Karanjeet Singh will be part of the Medical Commission, further strengthening India’s influence across multiple areas of governance in the new Asian boxing body.
India's involvement in the formation of this Asian body underscores its growing leadership in the sport, as well as its commitment to ensuring the Olympic status of boxing. This announcement also builds on India's recent successes, including securing the rights to host the prestigious World Boxing Cup Final in 2025 and the World Boxing Congress in 2025. These events, set for November 2025, will showcase India's organizational strengths and further solidify the country’s position as a global powerhouse in the development of boxing.
With this strategic involvement in the new Asian body and the successful bid to host major international boxing events, India is firmly establishing itself as a leader in the global boxing community. The country’s focus on building infrastructure, supporting athletes, and advancing the sport will ensure that it continues to play a major role in shaping the future of boxing in Asia and beyond.
