The World Boxing Championships 2025 will open a new chapter in Olympic boxing. For the first time, men and women will fight for the world championship titles in a joint tournament.
In September 2025, the best amateur boxers in the world will compete against each other in Liverpool. The city has been chosen to host the first World Boxing Championships. The M&S Bank Arena will host the tournament from September 4-14, 2025. This event marks the world championship debut of World Boxing, the new international federation that aims to keep boxing in the Olympic program.
Women and men at a World Cup tournament for the first time
In total, athletes in ten weight classes will fight for the world championship titles. It is the first time that men and women will compete for the world championship in a joint tournament in Olympic boxing. The individual weight classes will be announced after the World Boxing Congress in November 2024 when the new competition rules are published.
The President of World Boxing, Boris van der Vorst, emphasizes the importance of these World Championships: “Liverpool is a world-famous city with a proud boxing tradition. It is the perfect place to host our first World Championships.” The partnership with local organizations such as England Boxing, GB Boxing and the City of Liverpool was also crucial to the successful bid.
British boxers enjoy home advantage
Liverpool, which has already hosted international events such as the 2008 European Boxing Championships, is looking forward to the challenge ahead. The M&S Bank Arena is renowned for its first-class facilities and has hosted events such as the 2022 World Gymnastics Championships and the 2023 Eurovision Song Contest in recent years.
For the British boxers, the home match is a special incentive. “It’s a great opportunity to fight in front of a home crowd,” said Matt Holt, Managing Director of GB Boxing. “Our athletes normally travel the world to compete in major tournaments. Now they have the chance to prove themselves in their home country.”
Liverpool with a long boxing tradition
Local authorities and sponsors are also backing the project. The National Lottery and UK Sport are supporting the event, which is not only important for the sport but also for the region. Cllr Harry Doyle, Liverpool City Council, said: “Liverpool has a long tradition of boxing and we are delighted to be hosting these world championships. This event will be an important step for the future of the sport.”
The new format of the World Boxing Championships 2025 marks the start of a new chapter in Olympic boxing. The event will not only be an individual sporting highlight, but will also contribute to the long-term development of Olympic boxing.
Text: Andreas Ohlberger