Boxing likely to maintain status at 2020 Tokyo Olympics

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Boxing should continue featuring at the 2020 Tokyo Olympic Games but the sports' global governing body should not have the right to organize the event, according to a recommendation of the International Olympic Committee (IOC).

The decision, almost certain to be approved by the full IOC membership next month, followed a months-long investigation into alleged mismanagement at the International Boxing Association (AIBA).

Former AIBA president Gafur Rahimov, an Uzbek businessman who has been linked to organized crime by U.S. authorities, is the driving force for any suspension inflicted on the AIBA, despite his resignation in March.

IOC president Thomas Bach said the IOC wanted to ensure that boxers "can live their dream and participate in the Olympic Games Tokyo 2020," while ensuring that AIBA faced "the necessary consequences" over its conduct.

If its recommendation is approved at the IOC session in June, the executive board would also confirm that the total athlete quota and the number of events would be maintained at 286 and 13 respectively.

The IOC added that the status of AIBA's full recognition will in principle be reviewed after Tokyo 2020.

"Today’s decision was taken in the interest of the athletes and the sport of boxing," Bach said in a statement.

(With inputs from agencies)