FORMER PROFESSIONAL BOXERS have until 5pm this evening to register to compete in the Irish National Elite Men’s and Women’s Championships which begin on Friday at the National Stadium.
However, fighters hoping to return to action in the amateur ranks must meet a strict set of criteria set out by the Irish Athletic Boxing Association (IABA).
This includes having taken part in no more than five professional fights, being a member of an affiliated IABA club and having a complete medical examination.
Speaking to RTÉ, Pat Ryan — president of the IABA — said that it was crucial that Irish amateur boxing allowed pro boxers a way back if the paid game was not for them.
The move follows a decision by the International Boxing Association (AIBA) to allow ex-professionals compete at last year’s Olympic Games.
Ex-WBO World middleweight champion Hassan N’Jikam was one of three boxers who took advantage of the removal of the AIBA’s Rule 13 J.
He was joined by former-IBF flyweight champion Amnat Ruenroeng and Italian lightweight Carmine Tommasone.
It is not yet known if any Irish ex-professionals will take advantage of the new rule in time for this year’s competition.
