Boxing guide: The difference between organizations WBA, WBC, IBF and WBO

The difference between boxing organizations. Photo via Instagram

Are you confused by all the different belts in pro boxing? You’re not alone!

In boxing there is no single governing body that oversees the sport like in most other global sports (like FIFA in football for example). Instead, there are four major governing bodies – WBA, WBC, IBF and WBO – and they all have their own belts and champions.

So in all 17 boxing weight divisions, there can theoretically be four different world champions at the same time.

To become an undisputed world champion you will therefore need to hold all the four organization’s belts simultaneously, which is easier said than done, especially with all the politics going on in international pro boxing.

Still confused? Let’s take a closer look at the four major boxing organizations!