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What is the biggest threat to the future of boxing as an Olympic sport?

Keila Redsall

In my opinion, the biggest threat to the future of boxing as an Olympic sport is the declining popularity of the sport among young people. With the rise of alternative combat sports like mixed martial arts (MMA), kickboxing, and Brazilian jiu-jitsu, boxing has seen a significant decline in the number of active participants in recent years. According to the Sports & Fitness Industry Association, participation in boxing among youth aged 6-17 fell by 30% between 2012 and 2018.

This decline in participation has led to a lack of talent development and a decline in the overall quality of boxing in the Olympic Games. In the past, boxers like Muhammad Ali and Sugar Ray Leonard captured the world's attention with their incredible skill and charisma, but today's boxers do not have the same level of star power or visibility. Additionally, the lack of diversity in the sport may be a turnoff for many potential young athletes, as boxing remains predominantly male and has seen limited representation from diverse communities.

Another threat to boxing's future is the increasing concern over the safety of the sport. As more research is conducted on the long-term effects of repeated head trauma, many parents are hesitant to allow their children to participate in a sport as physically demanding as boxing. This concern for player safety is likely to become an even greater issue in coming years.

Finally, the current global pandemic has further disrupted the world of sports, including boxing, potentially affecting funding, training, and competition opportunities for Olympic hopefuls.

To remain relevant and successful, the sport of boxing must address these issues and become more accessible and appealing to younger audiences. This will require efforts to create more inclusive boxing programs that appeal to a wider range of youth, as well as increased emphasis on player safety and awareness. Additionally, boxing will need to develop strategies to address the challenges posed by the pandemic and other global crises in order to continue to thrive in the world of sports.