In early March, the World Boxing Federation (WBF) announced the discontinuation of its WBF Women’s World Titles in favor of forming a union with the WIBF (Women’s International Boxing Federation) and the GBU (Global Boxing Union) to create the new Unified Women’s World Championships as the only title of the three organizations and probably the only title of any significance in female boxing.
It seems that this was the move the boxing world has been waiting for, since the reaction from within the trade as well as from fans and boxers alike was unanimously and overwhelmingly positive. It has long been no secret that all but those who fill their pockets with ever more meaningless “titles” view designations such as Silver, Youth, Super, et al, as the worst disease of modern boxing.
Therefore, it came as not much of a surprise that the decision of the WBF, WIBF and GBU to have one mutual title instead of three separate ones received a big welcome. Read on for a selection of quotes:
“Congratulations! It is a sensible try to clarify the chaos in world title. I wish men’s organizations could be as innovative and cooperative.” – Pertti Augustin (Finland).
“Good news, equal opportunities.” – Col Wood (England).
“Good decision. Unfortunately the WBC does not take part, shame.” – Roland Hanff (Luxembourg).
“Congratulations to all involved. I hope for professional boxing that this initiative will be a success.” – Torben Seemann Hansen (Denmark).
“Very good idea, which I support 100%.” – Sam Layne (Barbados).
“Great work!” – Mark Farac (Australia).
“This is great news. I am so proud to be part of an organization that committed itself to such an initiative.” – Eddie Marshall (South Africa).
“Now that’s a fine thing. The basic idea is good.” – Peter Polzer (Germany).
“That’s really good news. It will certainly improve credibility of women champion titles.” – Eugenia Borshevska (Ukraine).
“As it should be. There can be only one.” – Caz Lane (England).
“Should be done in the men’s too.” – David Robbo Robinson (England).
“A good step in the right direction.” – Klaus Frevert (Germany).
“Congratulation, it’s a perfect step. And I believe it will help the growth and further development of the WBF.” – Behnam Azampanah (Iran).
