Slew of new projects set to spur a 'golden era'

With a group of A-list stars singing the praises of its ambition, the International Boxing Association has pledged to usher in a golden era of innovative new projects, despite its sour relationship with the International Olympic Committee.

Trying to reestablish its prestige as the sport's chief steward, the IBA launched its "Golden Era "development programs, including an esports initiative, a brand-new bare-knuckle league and the IBA Gym project, at a grand ceremony in Istanbul last week, aiming to extend the association's presence at both the amateur and professional levels.

"We are now creating an ecosystem that includes amateur boxing, professional boxing and bare-knuckle boxing," said IBA president Umar Kremlev of Russia.